Former Maryland Gov. Hogan Launches Senate Run

Former Maryland GOP Gov. Larry Hogan is launching an unexpected run for Senate, a source familiar with the matter told Politico.

Hogan is expected to file paperwork ahead of the state’s filing deadline on Friday and The Hill reported his decision came after intense lobbying from both National Republican Senatorial Committee Chair Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., and the committee itself.

He also reportedly had conversations with Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., prior to making his decision.

Having won two terms in the heavily Democrat Free State, Hogan was unable to run for the governorship for a third consecutive time and left office with a 77% approval rating, according to a Gonzales poll last year.

The centrist governor and frequent Trump critic said last May he would not be running for Democrat Sen. Ben Cardin’s seat after he announced he would not be seeking reelection.

At that time, Hogan said he believed he could win the Senate race, but that it would be tough.

“In a presidential year, it makes it even more difficult,” he said then. “But it’s not something I’m pursuing.”