Larry Hogan wins the Republican primary for Senate in Maryland; Republicans want to win seat currently held by a Democrat.

Larry Hogan, the former two-term Republican governor of Maryland, has secured the GOP Senate primary victory, moving him one step closer to the general election. The Associated Press declared Hogan the winner just over 30 minutes after the polls closed at 8 p.m. ET in Maryland. Hogan’s victory sets the stage for a general election battle that could potentially impact the balance of power in the Senate come November.

In a spirited speech to hundreds of supporters in Maryland’s capital city, Hogan expressed his determination to chart a new course for Maryland and the nation. He said, “They said the Hogan brand of politics was dead. Once again, we proved them wrong tonight. Tonight, the campaign for Maryland and America’s future begins.”

The stakes are high in this election as the winner will succeed retiring Democratic Sen. Ben Cardin. With Democrats fighting to maintain their slim Senate majority, Hogan’s entry into the race earlier this year posed an unexpected challenge in a traditionally Democratic stronghold like Maryland. Despite leaving office with high approval ratings, Hogan faced a competitive field of GOP contenders on his path to securing the nomination.

Hogan is now set to face off in the general election against either three-term Rep. David Trone or Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks, both prominent figures in Maryland’s Democratic political landscape. Trone, a wealthy businessman, poured significant personal funds into his campaign, positioning himself as the candidate best suited to take on Hogan. In contrast, Alsobrooks garnered support from key Democratic figures in the state, emphasizing her commitment to representing the interests of Maryland residents.

The upcoming race between Hogan and the Democratic nominee is expected to be closely watched, given the overall political climate and the implications for Senate control. With Democrats defending a majority of the Senate seats up for grabs this year, Hogan’s potential victory could significantly impact the balance of power in the chamber.

Despite facing an uphill battle in a predominantly blue state, Hogan’s track record as a successful business leader turned governor has earned him respect across party lines. While no Republican candidate has won a Senate seat in Maryland in decades, Hogan’s candidacy has injected a new level of energy and competitiveness into the race.

As Hogan sets his sights on the general election, his campaign will focus on highlighting his vision for Maryland’s future and his commitment to representing the interests of constituents. With the support of his loyal base and a clear message of bipartisanship, Hogan is determined to make a strong case for why he should be the next U.S. Senator from Maryland.

In the coming months, all eyes will be on Maryland as the state plays a crucial role in determining the balance of power in the Senate. Hogan’s journey from a victorious primary candidate to a potential Senate leader underscores the evolving dynamics of American politics and the enduring spirit of democracy.