In other traditionally blue states, Republicans are mounting strong challenges for statewide races that would be unthinkable in less friendly political climates. In, Maryland, however, the GOP bench remains remarkably shallow, with few officeholders willing to risk their seats to seek statewide positions. "In Maryland, even when a good Republican candidate runs against a good Democratic candidate, the good Democratic candidate is going to win almost every time," said Donald Norris, chair and professor of public policy.
The article, “Changing National Political Tide Yet to Lift Maryland GOP’s Hopes,” ran Monday, March 29, in the Washington Post.
Robert Ehrlich confirmed that he will try to reclaim his former job as governor, hoping to benefit from a national anti-incumbent sentiment that emerged since the last presidential election and has deepened during the health care debate. "I don’t think the mood of the country is going to change what happens in Maryland this fall," said Norris. "We’re a very blue state, and we’ve got an incumbent governor who’s reasonably popular and has a positive record to run on."
The article, “Ehrlich is in for the Rematch,” ran Wednesday, March 31, in the Baltimore Sun.
Maryland’s highest court will hear arguments on whether a state cap on jury awards for pain and suffering is constitutional. "This is not an issue that is likely to go away any time soon," said Norris, who described as unending the arguments over whether the restrictions have had an effect on insurance premiums or are sound public policy. "It is an enduring political question because it really brings out two polar-opposite positions and groups."
The article, “Maryland’s Highest Court to Hear Arguments on Damage Limits,” ran Friday, April 2, in the Baltimore Sun.
Robert Ehrlich has state-wide name recognition, but he will struggle in the state’s three powerhouse Democratic jurisdictions: Montgomery County, Prince George’s County and Baltimore City. Democrats win consistently by focusing on the Big Three. “That’s the strategy a Democrat uses in this state and it’s been pretty successful,” said Norris. The economy is the wild card. “If the economy goes back into the tank, all bets are off.”
The article, “Maryland Governor’s Race a Bellwether for Anti-Democratic Mood,” ran Tuesday, April 6, in the Daily Caller.
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