MD Senate Minority Leader, Steve Hershey, Exploring Possible Run for Governor
Image courtesy Maryland.gov
Maryland Senate Minority Leader Steve Hershey has announced that he is forming an exploratory committee to consider a campaign for governor. Hershey says that the Republican party in Maryland and the State face an important crossroads and wants to protect the integrity of the political process and ensure voters have a genuine choice on Election Day.
Hershey currently represents District 36 – Kent, Queen Anne’s, Cecil, and Caroline Counties
Additional information from Sen. Steve Hershey:
“As Minority Leader, I represent not only Republicans across Maryland — but also moderates who want balance in Annapolis,” Hershey said. “Since the beginning of the year, Marylanders from across the state have asked me to weigh a campaign for governor.
With Democrats now trying to game the system by switching parties, those calls have only grown more urgent.
“I feel a responsibility to protect the integrity of our political process and ensure voters have a genuine choice on Election Day.”
Hershey pointed to his record of pragmatic leadership and bipartisan experience.Â
“I’ve led our caucus with principle, I’ve worked with governors from both parties, and I know Maryland succeeds when we balance our traditionally Democratic General Assembly with fiscally responsible policies from the Governor’s Office,” Hershey said.
Hershey also emphasized his proven track record of conservative leadership.
“I’ve been a Republican all my life—not for convenience, but for conviction. I’ve spent my career standing up for fiscal discipline, reliable energy, accessible healthcare and safe communities. If Marylanders believe that’s the kind of leadership they want in the Governor’s Office, then I owe it to them to take a serious look at it.
Hershey added that the exploratory committee will allow him to engage with Marylanders directly before making a final decision.
“I have chosen a more prudent and deliberate path by forming an exploratory committee. This allows me to listen to Republicans, independents, and moderates across Maryland before making a formal decision. It’s not about chasing headlines—it’s about doing the work, earning trust, and
ensuring our campaign reflects the values Marylanders care about most.”
Hershey concluded, “Without real competition, Maryland loses balance. And without balance, there’s no incentive for moderation.
As Minority Leader, I represent Marylanders who want balance in the legislative process. I’ve been trusted to lead our caucus in Annapolis, and people are asking if its time I take that leadership further and determine whether I am the right person to carry our state forward.
So, this isn’t about me, it’s about protecting the integrity of our political process, to have a campaign based on competing views on the most important issues and making sure every Marylander has an honest choice on election day.
But I have to say, it’s nice to see the appeal of Republican ideas catching on.”