The victory of Angela Alsobrooks over Rep. David Trone in Maryland’s Democrat U.S. Senate primary has set the stage for a crucial general election race in the blue state with implications for the national Senate map. Alsobrooks, the county executive for Prince George’s County, defeated Trone, a wealthy three-term representative, in a surprising turn of events. Now, she will face former Gov. Larry Hogan, a popular figure in Maryland, in the general election.
Hogan’s entry into the race in February has complicated matters for Democrats, who were already facing challenges on the national map. His moderate stance and criticism of Trump have forced Democrats to defend their stronghold in Maryland, where Republicans have not won an election since 1986. This diversion of resources to Maryland could benefit Republican Senate nominees elsewhere.
While Hogan led in polls against Alsobrooks and Trone in the initial months, recent polls show Alsobrooks gaining ground. Despite this, Hogan maintains higher favorability and name recognition, giving Republicans an opportunity to shape the narrative around Alsobrooks with the election still months away.
Hogan is positioning himself as a moderate, appealing to a broad spectrum of voters in the blue state. His campaign’s focus on common decency and common sense is resonating with voters, as he seeks to build a coalition beyond traditional party lines.
Hogan’s candidacy is expected to draw crucial Democrat resources away from other Senate races across the nation, potentially benefiting Republicans aiming to flip seats in key states. With Democrats holding a slim majority in the Senate, the outcome of the Maryland election could have significant implications for the balance of power in Congress.
