Gov. Hogan Teaches Students At Towson Univ. A Lesson In Persuasion

TOWSON (WJZ) -- Towson University students get a lesson in persuasion from the state's chief executive. Governor Hogan taught a class Tuesday, and WJZ was there.

Political reporter Pat Warren explains the governor shared his key to success with potential public servants.

The theme of a Towson University persuasion class taught by Professor Richard Vatz? How to beat the odds, by Governor Larry Hogan.

"You know, I ran on a message that said we're going to get the government off your back and out of your pocket," said Hogan.

His was a grassroots campaign focused on voter contact.

Student: "Do you think anybody could run a campaign like you did and win?"

Governor: "It could work. I think people are just as disgusted--I'm disgusted--with the national politics right now. I don't know if any of you are. I'm frustrated with both parties and all the candidates."

A recent poll gives Hogan a 66 percent approval rating, with more than half of Democrats, Independents and nearly 90 percent of Republicans saying they like the direction he's taking.

"Talk about persuasion and, you mentioned, poll numbers--I don't want to talk about my personal popularity, but what I'm really happy about is people are happy with the direction the state is heading," said Hogan.

Did he persuade the students?

"I think he persuaded everyone to show that you don't really need to run a campaign based on lies and gimmicks," student Evan Alfano said.

"He really hit the key issues that we're all concerned about," said student Bilaal Daghar.

"This guy, he definitely seems like he cares, but this is my first introduction to him," said Marcus Bonilla, student. "So I need a little more than just a 15-minute conversation."

"Granted, he's a Republican--I'm not a Republican--but I feel as though what he said touched me," student C.J. Obima said.

Putting that persuasion into practice, the general election this year will show if Governor Hogan's gives any other Republican candidates traction.

Governor Hogan has been in office for only 15 months.