Maryland Voters Navigate High Stakes In Gubernatorial Race

Prince George's County Executive Angela Alsobrooks, right, who is running for the U.S. Senate seat in Maryland that is opening with the retirement of Sen. Ben Cardin, left, talks to supporters during

CHESTER, Md. (AP) — Voters in Maryland are facing a crucial decision as they weigh their options in the race between Republican Larry Hogan and Democrat Angela Alsobrooks. Hogan, a former governor, is running for U.S. Senate, while Alsobrooks, the chief executive of Prince George's County, is vying for the same seat.

As early voting commenced, Marylanders expressed a range of sentiments. Some Republicans on the Eastern Shore, a conservative region of the state, grappled with their support for Hogan, who has been critical of former President Donald Trump. Despite their reservations, many felt Hogan was the best choice for Maryland's interests.

Democrats in Annapolis, the state capital, acknowledged the significance of the Senate race. While some had previously supported Hogan in his gubernatorial bids, they now prioritize maintaining a Democratic majority in the Senate. The potential impact on national policy decisions weighed heavily on their minds.

Hogan's criticism of Trump poses a dilemma for some Eastern Shore Republicans.

Republican Larry Hogan and Democrat Angela Alsobrooks vie for Maryland's Senate seat.

Democrats in Annapolis prioritize maintaining a Democratic Senate majority.

The Senate race in Maryland draws significant campaign spending from both parties.

Voters like Paula Dickerson struggle to support Hogan due to Senate control implications.

Alsobrooks gains support as Maryland's first Black senatorial candidate.

The race for Maryland's Senate seat has drawn substantial campaign spending from both major parties and outside groups. The outcome could tip the balance of power in the Senate, with Republicans eyeing a majority if Hogan emerges victorious.

Voters like Paula Dickerson, a Democrat, found it challenging to support Hogan due to the implications for Senate control. Conversely, Republican Liza Hamill praised Hogan's governance and dismissed his criticisms of Trump, emphasizing her belief in Hogan's leadership.

Meanwhile, Alsobrooks has garnered support for her historic candidacy as Maryland's first Black senator. Her campaign has energized voters, particularly in Prince George's County, where residents are enthusiastic about electing a woman who represents their values and upholding the Democratic majority in the Senate.

At the University of Maryland, College Park, students expressed their support for Alsobrooks, citing her track record as county executive. The enthusiasm for her candidacy reflects a desire for diverse representation in the Senate.

In Millersville, Hogan rallied his supporters, emphasizing his underdog status and commitment to principled leadership. Voters like Virginia Umberger praised Hogan's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and his willingness to stand by his convictions.