Wargotz forgoes Senate run
Eric Wargotz, a Republican who ran an unsuccessful campaign against Democratic Sen. Barbara A. Mikulski last year, announced Thursday that he will not challenge Sen. Benjamin L. Cardin in 2012 -- narrowing the field of possible GOP contenders.
In a statement, Wargotz said he was "humbled to learn" that he remains popular among Maryland's Republican primary voters, but said support for Cardin, a Democrat, remains too strong for him to mount a serious challenge for the general election.
"In this political reality, we find ourselves in the position of being able to win the Republican nomination but falling short in the general election," he said.
The decision leaves former U.S. Secret Service agent Dan Bongino of Severna Park as the only Republican who appears to be aggressively campaigning for seat, though he has so far not raised enough campaign cash to compete against Cardin. Baltimore County Republican Del. Patrick McDonough has said he is considering a run.
Last year, Wargotz captured just under 36 percent of the vote. That left Mikulski with a commanding 62 percent of the vote.
Comments
I am so glad Eric Wargotz decided to sit this out. I supported him each time he ran but the stage is set for Daniel Bongino. I know we can win this seat if all the different camps consolidate behind him. William Capps just endorsed, I hope they all do so we take back the Senate and repeal ObamaCare!
Posted by: Forest | November 4, 2011 2:05 AM
I agree with you, Forest. I like Wargotz, but I really think Bongino has this one. I'm just hoping McDonough will throw his support behind Bongino and run for Rep.
Suit
http://annapolisinthered.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Suit | November 5, 2011 4:12 AM