Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot Plans To Run For Governor In 2022
BALTIMORE (WJZ) — Maryland has its first candidate for governor in 2022, after Comptroller Peter Franchot confirmed Thursday he is a candidate for the race to succeed Gov. Larry Hogan.
And he's starting now.
"I'm flattered that I'm able to even consider it and I'm typically kind of coy in considering it." Franchot told WJZ on Thursday. "Now I've decided to put all of that aside and say, 'Hey, let's do it!'"
It's the opposite of the conclusion he reached in 2014 considering it and deciding, "Hey, let's not!"
"This time I've reached the conclusion that I've done everything I can do in the comptroller's office." He said.
That includes one-on-one contact with local businesses encouraging Marylanders to shop local, and he's made a reputation for himself in other ways.
"People say, 'Aren't you a little bit... you've been in politics a long time and gee what are the young voters going to say?' Turns out I'm a rock star with the young voters because of the Maryland craft beer stuff I've been involved in and championed that sector and so I think I'll be pretty well received around the state." Franchot said.
And he anticipates support from the Democratic Party.
"The proof of that is I've never been primaried, no one's ever challenged me, even though there's been some friction between me and the Annapolis leadership, but that's ok. The Annapolis leadership is now transitioning and I have a great relationship with the voters." He said.
The filing period for 2022 opens next year.
