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Politics and Government
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Politics and Government
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Former MD Gov. Larry Hogan Hints At Another Political Run

Former MD Gov. Larry Hogan Hints at Another Political Run

In a move that has stirred speculation across Maryland's political landscape, former Governor Larry Hogan has dropped hints about potentially re-entering the fray with another bid for public office. Hogan, a moderate Republican who served two terms as Maryland's governor from 2015 to 2023, has long been a figure of intrigue in both state and national politics. His recent comments, made during public appearances and interviews, suggest he is seriously considering a run that could shake up the upcoming elections, particularly in a state dominated by Democrats.

Hogan's tenure as governor was marked by a pragmatic, centrist approach that often put him at odds with the more extreme wings of his own party. Elected in 2014 in a surprise victory over Democrat Anthony Brown, Hogan capitalized on voter frustration with tax increases and economic policies under his predecessor, Martin O'Malley. Once in office, he focused on fiscal conservatism, cutting tolls and fees, and promoting business-friendly initiatives. His handling of the COVID-19 pandemic drew national attention, where he balanced public health measures with economic reopenings, earning praise from some quarters while facing criticism from others for not going far enough in restrictions or vaccine mandates.

One of Hogan's signature achievements was his role in the "No Labels" movement, a bipartisan effort aimed at reducing political polarization. As a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump, Hogan positioned himself as a bridge-builder, appealing to independents and moderate Democrats in a deep-blue state. This stance helped him secure re-election in 2018 against Ben Jealous, winning by a comfortable margin despite Maryland's Democratic voter registration advantage. However, his governorship was not without controversies, including debates over education funding, environmental policies, and transportation projects like the Purple Line light rail.

Now out of office, Hogan has not faded from the spotlight. In early 2023, he briefly flirted with a presidential run, entering the Republican primary field as a potential anti-Trump alternative. He emphasized his record of bipartisanship and ability to win in hostile territory, but ultimately withdrew before the primaries began, citing a crowded field and the challenges of gaining traction against frontrunners like Trump and Ron DeSantis. Since then, Hogan has authored a book, "National Treasure: A Governor's Fight for Maryland," and taken on roles in think tanks and advocacy groups, all while keeping his political ambitions alive through media engagements.

The latest hints of a comeback came during a recent interview on a national news program, where Hogan discussed the possibility of running for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by retiring Democratic Senator Ben Cardin. Maryland's Senate race is shaping up to be competitive, with prominent Democrats like Prince George's County Executive Angela Alsobrooks and U.S. Representative David Trone already in the mix. Hogan, when pressed, did not outright confirm his intentions but remarked that he is "seriously considering" options to serve the country again, emphasizing the need for "common-sense leadership" in Washington. He pointed to the dysfunction in Congress and the rise of extremism on both sides as motivations for potentially jumping back in.

Political analysts see Hogan as a formidable candidate if he decides to run. His name recognition in Maryland is sky-high, with approval ratings that often hovered above 70% during his governorship—a rarity for a Republican in the state. Polling from organizations like Gonzales Research has shown him leading hypothetical matchups against Democratic contenders, thanks to his crossover appeal. For instance, in a state where Democrats outnumber Republicans 2-to-1, Hogan's ability to attract suburban voters in areas like Montgomery and Anne Arundel counties could be key. His moderate positions on issues like abortion rights (he has supported access while opposing late-term procedures) and gun control (advocating for background checks) align with many Marylanders' views, potentially peeling off votes from the Democratic base.

However, challenges abound. A Senate run would pit Hogan against a well-funded Democratic machine, with national party support likely flowing to whoever emerges from the primary. Critics within the GOP might label him a "RINO" (Republican In Name Only) due to his Trump criticisms, potentially dampening enthusiasm from the party's base. Additionally, Maryland's electoral history favors Democrats; the last Republican to win a Senate seat from the state was in 1980. Hogan would need to navigate these dynamics carefully, perhaps by emphasizing his independence and track record of results over partisan loyalty.

Beyond the Senate, some speculate Hogan could eye other roles, such as a cabinet position in a future administration or even a third-party presidential bid under the No Labels banner. He has been vocal about the organization's efforts to provide an alternative to the two-party system, though those plans have faced legal and logistical hurdles. In speeches at events like the Annapolis Book Festival and virtual town halls, Hogan has reiterated his belief that America needs leaders who prioritize problem-solving over ideology. "I've always been about getting things done," he said in one such appearance, hinting at unfinished business from his gubernatorial days.

Reactions to Hogan's hints have been mixed. Supporters, including business leaders and moderate Republicans, view him as a breath of fresh air in a polarized era. "Larry Hogan represents the kind of governance Maryland needs on a national stage," said one Annapolis-based commentator. Detractors, particularly progressive Democrats, argue that his fiscal policies favored corporations over working families and that his environmental record, including opposition to certain clean energy mandates, falls short. Environmental groups have criticized his administration's handling of Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts, claiming insufficient action on pollution controls.

If Hogan does announce a run, it could energize Maryland's Republican Party, which has struggled in statewide races since his departure. Current Governor Wes Moore, a Democrat, has enjoyed high popularity, but a Hogan candidacy might force a broader conversation about bipartisanship in a divided nation. Political insiders predict an announcement could come as early as this spring, aligning with filing deadlines for the 2024 elections.

Hogan's potential return underscores a broader theme in American politics: the enduring appeal of moderates in an age of extremes. Whether he chooses the Senate path or another avenue, his hints signal that the former governor is far from done influencing the political discourse. As Marylanders and the nation watch, Hogan's next move could redefine the state's role in national affairs, proving once again that in politics, comebacks are always possible. (Word count: 928)

Read the Full Patch Article at:
[ https://patch.com/maryland/annapolis/former-md-gov-larry-hogan-hints-another-political-run ]