Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot (D) decided today to run for re-election, rather than take a shot at Governor in 2014. Straight from his website: (emphasis mine)
In that spirit of sincere gratitude, I would also like to let you know that I have decided to seek re-election as Comptroller of Maryland in 2014. This is a decision that I have made after a great deal of personal reflection, and with the sound and thoughtful advice of my wife, Anne, and my two children, Abbe and Nick. It is no secret that in recent months, I have given thought to running for governor. I am humbled by the extraordinary support that my prospective campaign received in every corner of our state, and I am now more convinced than ever that there is a shared desire among Marylanders – irrespective of ideology or party affiliation – for an honest conversation of the fiscal and economic challenges that still lie ahead.
I can't say I'm surprised he dropped out of the running. He's been at odds with Gov. Martin O'Malley about everything from
redistricting to
expanded gambling. Last year Franchot
publicly criticized O'Malley yet again, suggesting the governor is more focused on his Presidential ambitions than Maryland's needs. O'Malley responded by saying that Franchot is
"our version of Mitt Romney."
Lt. Gov Anthony Brown commissioned a Garin-Hart-Yang poll among likely Democratic voters in September, likely to test the waters (2 years in advance) for his gubernatorial run. The GHY poll found 31% for Brown, 18% for AG Doug Gansler, 14% for Franchot, 4% for Howard County Exec Ken Ulman, and 33% were unsure.
Finally, as expected, Delegate Kumar Barve and State Senator Jim Rosapepe ended their bids for Franchot's Comptroller job.
I personally think Franchot is a good comptroller. He has shown an opposition to tax and fee increases, which is his job. It is not, however, the job of a governor to rule out revenue increases as a means to balance the state budget. Maryland is probably best off with Franchot exactly where he is.