(The Center Square) – Former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan and Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks will square off in November in a bid for the U.S. Senate, following decisive wins in their primary races.
Hogan sailed to victory Tuesday, cinching the race with nearly 62% of the Republican primary votes, with former Del. Robin Ficker trailing in a distant second with approximately 30% of the vote, according to the Maryland State Board of Elections. Hogan was the favorite going into Tuesday despite a crowded GOP field.
Stakes were much higher leading into the primary for Democrats vying for the seat of retiring Democratic Sen. Ben Cardin, with Alsobrooks and Congressman David Trone going toe-to-toe. Despite predictions of a photo finish between the two candidates, Alsobrooks bested Trone with about 54% to his nearly 42% with 1950 of 1957 precincts reported, according to the Maryland State Board of Elections.
Alsobrooks wasted no time staking her ground while vowing to defeat Hogan and “keep Maryland blue.”
“My name is Angela Alsobrooks, and I am officially your Democratic nominee in Maryland’s Senate race. On November 5, 2024, we are going to defeat Larry Hogan, keep Maryland blue, and keep our Senate under Democratic control — spread the word,” Alsobrooks posted to X.
Hogan, an ardent critic of former President Donald Trump, hopes to capitalize on his “independent” streak. In his victory message to supporters, he underscored his moderate leanings. He also took a swipe at the partisanship in Washington while highlighting his middle-of-the-road approach to governing.
“Our campaign for Maryland and America’s future begins now. The Washington politicians win by perpetuating polarization, but Maryland is known as the state of middle temperament. We believe in common decency and common sense,” Hogan posted to X.
The former governor also took the time to tout his record as a “get things done” leader and reiterate his tenure at Maryland’s helm.
“I come from the get-to-work and get things done school, and I’ll work with anyone who wants to do the people’s business. That’s what I did for eight years as your governor, and it’s exactly what I’ll do in the United States Senate. With your help we’re going to bring our case for strong, proven, effective, and independent leadership directly to the people of Maryland—all across this state,” Hogan added.
Despite Maryland being considered a deep blue state, Hogan’s candidacy poses a risk for Democrats. The former governor won reelection in 2018 by nearly 12%, expanding his vote count from when he was first elected in 2014—squeaking by with just over 3%.
Maryland hasn’t elected a Republican to serve in the U.S. Senate in four decades.
