Hogan Appears to be Done Running for Maryland Governor

Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan released a statement on social media that he doesn’t plan on running for office.

“I care deeply about the state of Maryland, and I remain concerned about the direction of our nation’s politics, but I have no intention of running for office again. It was an honor to serve, but it’s time to look forward, not back. The fight for Maryland and America’s future does not belong to any one person or any one party; it belongs to the people.”

Hogan was term limited from seeking a third term in 2022 because a person can’t serve more than two consecutive terms as Maryland. Once a Governor’s term is up, he/she can sit out an election cycle and run again four years later.

Hogan teased his supporters by taking jabs at Wes Moore and many thought he was considering a run in 2026.

Did Hogan ever plan a run and was trolling Moore about a run or was he giving it consideration until the last few days? He might never know.

It appeared Hogan did less social media posting once Ed Hale announced he was running as Republican for Governor.

Did Hogan’s last minute decision deter other high profile candidates from running.

There were reports that state Senator Steve Hershey was considering a run for Governor. Was Hershey waiting to see what Hogan was doing and is it too late for Hershey to enter the Governor’s race?

If Hogan made his “not running” announcement in the fall, perhaps Hershey or another high-profile Republican might have had time to start a statewide campaign.