Steele: State Republicans failed to capitalize on Gov. Hogan’s brand

Michael Steele, a former Maryland lieutenant governor and one-time national GOP chair, faults state Republicans for failing to capitalize on a two-term, popular governor and nominate someone in his mold who can win in November.

“Instead you got the Trump-iest numbnut you can find,” Steele said. “Good luck with that in a state that is 2-to-1 Democrat.”

Steele, who decided against running in 2022 for governor himself, said Cox found a winning strategy, while Schulz didn’t break through.

“He made a direct appeal to a Trump base that turned out for him,” Steele said. “It was very effective. It got him the nomination.”