Larry Hogan, the former Republican governor of Maryland and a vocal critic of Donald Trump, is facing a tough battle as he runs for Senate in a bid to reclaim the soul of the Republican Party. Hogan, who once believed that Trump’s influence was diminishing, now finds himself in a fierce fight to prove that there is still a path forward for anti-Trump Republicans seeking federal office in 2024.
Despite his popularity in Maryland, Hogan faces skepticism from voters who are wary of giving another Republican a seat in the U.S. Senate, especially in a deep blue state. The shadow of Trump looms large over Hogan’s campaign, with some even dubbing him as “running toward the burning building.”
However, Hogan remains undeterred, citing a call from former President George W. Bush as a source of encouragement. Bush praised Hogan as an important voice for the party and the country, urging him to consider running for Senate. Hogan’s decision to distance himself from Trump contrasts with other Republicans, like former Senator Kelly Ayotte, who have endorsed the former president.
Hogan’s presence in the Senate race has energized the Democratic primary in Maryland, with voters torn between candidates who they believe can defeat Hogan in the general election. Despite polls showing Hogan with a lead over potential Democratic opponents, voters like Gisela Barry see him as a calming voice in the Senate, even as they grapple with the implications of giving Republicans more power.
As Hogan gears up for the Senate primary in Maryland, his campaign serves as a microcosm of the larger battle within the Republican Party. With the future of the party at stake, Hogan’s candidacy will test whether there is still room for anti-Trump Republicans in the political landscape of 2024.
