The Sun endorses
Happy voting today, Marylanders; here’s the complete list of candidates and ballot questions The Sun has endorsed in the general election
Our view: Hogan for governor
We admire both Republican Gov. Larry Hogan (The Sun’s 2014 Marylander of the Year) and Democratic gubernatorial nominee Ben Jealous (Marylander of the Year 2013). In considering the entirety of his record, we think Governor Hogan is the right choice. We have reservations about some of his actions (notably his cancelation of the Red Line), but he provides a welcome check and balance to the Democratic General Assembly while showing the ability and inclination to work across party lines on important issues, from criminal justice reform to shoring up Maryland’s health care system. He has stayed true to his pledge to focus on economic and fiscal issues rather than social hot-buttons, and we share his unqualified commitment to ending the practice of gerrymandering in Maryland.
Frosh for attorney general
The incumbent Democrat has earned another term for his protection of Maryland consumers and the environment, for his work to establish an organized crime unit in the AG’s office to help local prosecutors with complex, multi-jurisdictional cases, and, yes, his efforts to hold the Trump administration accountable on issues of crucial importance to Marylanders, from clean air to health care to honest governance. His opponent, Republican Craig Wolf, says Mr. Frosh spends too much time grandstanding against President Trump and not enough fighting Baltimore crime, but that does not square with the record.
Olszewski for Baltimore County executive
Democrat John Olszewski Jr. offers Baltimore County voters a real breath of fresh air. The former delegate and young father from Dundalk has a clear understanding of Baltimore County’s problems and opportunities, and he has developed a well thought-out platform of ideas in education, economic development, transportation and more. The overriding theme of his campaign — a promise to bring more openness, inclusiveness and transparency to Baltimore County government — is one that should resonate with voters who have too often been treated as if they were a nuisance.
His Republican opponent, Al Redmer Jr., offers a wealth of public and private sector experience, but his plan on issue after issue is to makeaplan. Hedoesn’t comeclose to his opponent in the level of detail he presents to voters about what he would do in office.
Giangrande in District 3
This Frederick-based swing district is now represented by Democratic Sen. Ron Young, but we see an opportunity for fresh leadership from Republican businessman Craig Giangrande. He has pragmatic, pro-business policy ideas and offers a welcome focus on making sure the investments Maryland is poised to make in increased education funding go toward the best practices the Commission on Excellence and Innovation in Education (aka the Kirwan Commission) has established.
Klausmeier in District 8
This Perry Hall-area district is Larry Hogan country, but it’s Kathy Klausmeier country, too. The incumbent Democrat is the kind of state senator who is a constant presence in her district, and consequently she has her finger on the pulse of the issues that her constituents care most about, from school safety to prescription drug affordability. Her opponent, Republican Del. Christian Miele is a terrific young leader with a welcome focus on government reform and transparency. But we believe Senator Klausmeier still has a lot to give.
Lam in District 12
Democratic Del. Clarence Lam is the natural choice to take the Howard and Baltimore county seat long occupied by Sen. Edward Kasemeyer. A physician and preventive care expert, Dr. Lam provides crucial expertise in health care policy. We support him over his Republican opponent, businessman Joe Hooe.
Elfreth in District 30
Democrat Sarah Elfreth is one of the most exciting new candidates on Maryland’s political scene this year. Just 30 years old, she already has extensive experience in public policy, politics and public service. As is appropriate for her Annapolis-based district, her top priorities center on protecting the environment and the Chesapeake Bay. Her opponent, former Del. Ron George, is a familiar and deservedly well respected presence in the district, but Ms. Elfreth is its future.
Beidle in District 32
Democratic Del. Pam Beidle has represented District 32 well for years, focusing on constituent service, education and pocketbook issues like prescription drug coverage for state government retirees. Her opponent, Republican County Councilman John Grasso, has a history of making racially or ethnically insensitive The Sun endorses Democrat John A. Olszewski Jr. for Baltimore County executive. remarks and does not have Governor Hogan’s endorsement.
Carozza in District 38
This Lower Shore district is represented by well-liked incumbent Democratic state Sen. James Mathias, a former Ocean City Mayor. But we believe Republican Del. Mary Beth Carozza is simply a better fit for the district. She has years of experience in government on both the federal and state levels, with particular expertise in homeland security issues. She is also particularly attuned to the toll the opioid overdose epidemic has had on this district, and on the need to provide better career pathways in public schools.
West in District 42
This conservative-leaning district is accustomed to non-partisan leadership from Democratic state Sen. JimBrochin, and the natural successor to that legacy is Republican Del. Chris West. Whenever there was a need for bi-partisan cooperation on big issues, whether on criminal justice or health care, Delegate West was in the middle of it, helping broker compromises that moved the state forward. His Democratic opponent, Robbie Leonard, is a protege of Senator Brochin with a similar passion for retail politics, but Delegate West’s impressive record easily merits elevation to the Senate.
Yes on state ballot questions
Two state constitutional amendments appear on this year’s ballot. We recommend a vote for both.
Question1is the so-called education “lockbox.” There’s less here than meets the eye, but this question — supported by both Democrats and Governor Hogan — would at least set the state on a path toward setting aside money that will be necessary to fund the Kirwan Commission’s recommendations.
Question 2 would allow same-day voter registration on election day. We already have it during early voting, and at least 14 other states and the District of Columbia allow it on election day as well. A half-million Marylanders who are eligible to vote still aren’t registered, and if we can remove a barrier to their participation, we should.
Yes on most city ballot issues
Questions A, B, C and D are routine bond issues. Question E would prohibit the city from privatizing its water system. Question F provides greater authority and independence for Baltimore’s inspector general. Question G is somewhat controversial but was recommended by a charter review commission. It would make the head of the city’s Department of Legislative Reference an at-will employee who serves at the pleasure of the mayor, City Council president and comptroller. Question H would create a system of voluntary public campaign financing for city elections. We support them all.
The one we don’t recommend is Question I. It would create an equity fund that the mayor and City Council could use to support various efforts to overcome inequality. We certainly support the intent, but we’d rather wait until the city completes an assessment of whether its practices foster or diminish equity. After that, we can determine the best way to address the issue.
Yes on Balto. Co. ballot issues
The first several questions are the fruit of a charter review committee. Question A fixes wording issues and makes the charter’s language gender neutral. Question B makes minor revisions to the stated duties of various officials. Question C allows the council to consider bills for 60 days rather than the current maximum of 45. Question D formalizes the practice in which re-elected executives must seek council confirmation for any cabinet officials they seek to hold over. Question E increases oversight and transparency in determining the pay and benefits for top county officials. Question F clarifies that the Department of Public Works is responsible for overseeing transportation issues. The remaining questions, G through O, cover routine borrowing. Voters should approve them all.