In a significant development for the Republican Party, former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, 67, announced on Friday his decision to run for the US Senate this year. Hogan’s candidacy could potentially alter the dynamics of the Senate race, where Democrats currently hold a slim one-seat majority.
“I am running for the United States Senate – not to serve one party – but to stand up to both parties, fight for Maryland, and fix our nation’s broken politics. It’s what I did as Maryland’s governor, and it’s exactly how I’ll serve Maryland in the Senate. Let’s get back to work,” Hogan stated in a message posted online.
Hogan, known for his moderate political stance and willingness to critique fellow Republican Donald Trump, expressed his frustration with the current state of politics in Washington, calling it “completely broken”.
His entry into the race has been welcomed by Republicans. Josh Holmes, the top political adviser to Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, expressed his excitement on social media, saying, “I would pay a significant amount for a ticket to watch Chuck Schumer’s face right now.”
However, Hogan’s decision to run comes after a period of uncertainty. Despite repeated appeals from top Republicans, Hogan had previously expressed disinterest in running for the Senate. He had also briefly considered a presidential run in 2024, but later abandoned the idea.
Despite his popularity as a former governor, Hogan may face challenges within his own party, particularly from the Trump-supporting faction. His decision to not support the Republican nominee to succeed him in 2022 has drawn criticism from the MAGA wing of the party.
On the Democratic side, Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks and Rep. David Trone are vying for the seat of retiring Sen. Ben Cardin. Despite the strong Democratic presence in Maryland, Hogan remains hopeful.
Democrats were quick to respond to Hogan’s announcement. Democratic Senate Campaign Committee spokesperson Maeve Coyle stated, “A vote for Republican Larry Hogan is a vote to make Mitch McConnell Majority Leader and turn the Senate over to Republicans so they can pass a national abortion ban.”
Hogan, who served two terms as governor, left office in January 2023 with high approval ratings. He has faced numerous challenges during his tenure, including riots in Baltimore, a global pandemic, and a personal battle with cancer.
This story will be updated with additional reactions and background information as they become available.
Contributor: Shania Shelton, CNN