Watch CBS News

Mooney Elected Chairman Of State GOP

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- Conservative former state senator Alex Mooney has been elected chairman of the Maryland Republican Party. 

Mooney defeated four challengers at Saturday's convention, including Mary Kane, the party's nominee for lieutenant governor this year. Her husband, John Kane, is a former state GOP chairman. 

Mooney says he'll remain committed to his conservative principles and says he might "take on some social issues." He's pledging to embrace tea party groups and has a detailed fundraising plan. 

Many Republicans say Mooney's victory Saturday signals an end to the dominance of the party by former governor Robert Ehrlich and his supporters. Ehrlich reached out to working-class voters and centrist Democrats. 

Mooney served three terms in the state Senate and lost his re-election bid to former Frederick mayor Ron Young.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.