Democrats, Republicans, are looking to succeed Governor Martin O'Malley in 2014.
  
               I know, its early, but as 2013 begins, both parties seem to have a head start in the campaign for 2014. A "rising star" among Democrats, It is evident that term-limited Gov. O'Malley is running for president in 2016, or at least trying. Lt.Governor Anthony Brown is already being considered a top pick among Democrats, while Harford County Executive David Craig is rising in popularity among Republicans. 

              

              Despite decisive victories for Obama and Cardin in Maryland, The GOP is looking to pull an Ehrlich/Steele like victory as they did in 2002 after Governor Parris Glendening became term limited. Then Lt.Governor Kathleen Kennedy Townsend became the Democratic Nominee. Ehrlich defeated Townsend with 51.55% (879,592) to 47.68% (813,422). This had not been done since 1966 by a Republican in Maryland. The GOP is seeing an opportunity. 

              Veteran political columnist and author of The Great Game of Maryland Politics Barry Rascovar stated in his article"One election down, governor’s race ahead" in the Gazette Newspaper of Politics and Business...

             '"Right now, Brown faces the same roadblock Townsend confronted. He must defend each and every position taken by O'Malley  That could be a heavy burden if O'Malley finds he has to raise taxes yet again. There are pressing needs that can’t be addressed without a significant amount of new revenue, especially in transportation and health care."

              He also mentioned Harford County Executive David Craig as having a good chance at being competitive with Democrats...

             "On the Republican side, the one candidate with a legitimate shot at being competitive with the Democrats is Harford County Executive David Craig. In difficult recessionary times, Craig steered his county through it with a minimum of pain. He made difficult budget choices but did so with compassion and common sense.

Craig, a retired teacher and school principal, was a popular state senator in Annapolis. His credentials are impressive and his sensible, pragmatic outlook toward governing could win over centrist voters."

              Talk among Republicans has suggested that Name ID outside of Harford and Cecil County will be a significant problem for David Craig. His quiet, low key style as a candidate could have an impact on whether or not he rises out of the primaries. Insiders have suggested that Team Craig needs to raise at least $10 Million by 2014.

              Outlook for the Democrats is looking promising. With a few well established potential candidates such as Lt. Gov. Brown, Howard County Executive Ken Ulman, Attorney General Doug Gansler, and Delegate Heather Mizeur. However the race for Governor is already shaping to become very competitive. We'll have to wait and see.

              More updates to comes in the future as candidates declare candidacy.