Early speculation by the Washington Post's blog Maryland Moment proved correct. A formal announcement is expected this morning in Arubutus confirming Ehrlich's choice for a running mate: Kristen Cox of Towson, Maryland's
Secretary of Disabilities, who has been legally blind since age 13.
Rumors for months surrounding Ehrlich's selection have focused on potential women candidates to shore up his depressed support among suburban women. State Senator Sandra Schrader (Howard County) was mentioned frequently but her 'flip-flop' during the Baltimore Gas & Electric relief plan conflict (she voted for it, but then supported Ehrlich's veto) may have made Ehrlich's final decision easier.
In the past week, the statewide op-eds picked Kristen Cox as the frontrunner. A political advantage with the Cox selection was perceived by The Gazette to be "a message of empowerment to people with disabilities." The Baltimore Sun agreed with:
Plenty of potential candidates have churned through Maryland's political rumor mill in recent months, but the name on everyone's lips late last week was Kristen Cox, secretary of Maryland's Department of Disabilities. She'd be an unusual - possibly historic - pick for one reason: She is legally blind.
My opinion is that Ehrlich is not pandering but has shown genuine commitment to the blind
Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, of Maryland, has supported blind Americans for many years. He supported legislative initiatives by the NFB of Maryland when he was a delegate in the state's General Assembly, but Federationists nationwide probably best remember him for his introduction of the Blind Empowerment Act (or Blind Persons Earnings Equity Act) in the U.S. House of Representatives. Through this legislative effort, Ehrlich demonstrated his clear understanding that what the blind want and need is a hand up, not a handout. He also understands, however, that it takes real vision and commitment on the part of government to insure that the blind have access to the resources and opportunities we need to succeed.
which is clearly commendable.
So back to the original issue for Ehrlich: I ask fellow Maryland Democrats in the poll below: Will the selection of Cox help him with suburban women in 'swing' areas like Howard County, where his support is currently lagging as compared to 2002?