Lara Trump Denounces Larry Hogan, Threatening Republican Senate Seat in Maryland
Lara Trump, the co-chair of the Republican National Committee and daughter-in-law of former President Donald J. Trump, has sparked controversy by denouncing Larry Hogan, the Republican Senate candidate in Maryland. Hogan, a former governor of Maryland, recently urged Americans to “respect the verdict” against Mr. Trump, a statement that did not sit well with supporters of the former president.
In a recent interview on CNN, Lara Trump criticized Hogan, stating that he “doesn’t deserve the respect of anyone in the Republican Party at this point.” She expressed her disappointment in Hogan’s comments and hinted that the Republican Party may not continue to support his campaign.
The National Republican Senatorial Committee (N.R.S.C.) had initially been enthusiastic about Hogan’s candidacy, seeing it as a potential opportunity to win a Senate seat that has long been held by Democrats. However, Lara Trump’s denouncement has thrown a wrench into the party’s plans, with uncertainty surrounding whether the R.N.C. and N.R.S.C. will continue to support Hogan.
The Maryland Senate seat in question is open due to the retirement of Democratic incumbent Senator Ben Cardin. While Maryland has not elected a Republican to the Senate in over 40 years, Hogan’s popularity in the state has given Republicans hope for a potential victory. However, his criticism of Mr. Trump and deviation from party orthodoxy on certain issues may jeopardize his chances of winning the seat.
As the Republican Party grapples with internal divisions and loyalty to the former president, the outcome of the Maryland Senate race remains uncertain. With Hogan’s candidacy now in question, the party faces a crucial decision on whether to continue supporting a candidate who has drawn the ire of key figures within the party.