by Jenna Bloom ’21

Maryland’s governor Larry Hogan (R) is the second most popular governor in the nation. With a 70-percent approval rate, it’s uncommon for democratic-leaning state to love their republican governor so much. Historically, Maryland is one of the most blue states in the country. Since 1960, Maryland has only voted Republican in 3 landslide elections. 

These stats leave many wondering: how did Larry Hogan successfully gain the support of Maryland? Let’s start with the basics, Hogan is a strong, independent leader. He consistently follows through with his promises and delivers real results. In his first inaugural address, he pledged to advance the best possible ideas, regardless of what side of the political spectrum they come from. He is calm with his policies, and gives off a regular guy, “favorite uncle” vibe. He’s willing to work with Democrats, is honest, and is mindful of the need to regulate. Not to mention his successful and inspiring fight against stage 3 non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.

Basically, Hogan is everything that President Trump isn’t — which is comforting to Marylanders. Throughout his years as governor, his approval rates have steadily risen. They began at 39 percent in 2015, moved up to 58 percent later that year, and went into the 60s in 2016. But, after Trump took office, they hit the 70s and have stayed there ever since. 

Recently, the nation was struck by the COVID-19 pandemic, and Hogan’s management of the situation has left many citizens in awe. He has stepped up and taken impressive executive leadership in a time of such uncertainty and worry. February 28 was the first time any Marylanders were suspected of having the coronavirus. On March 5, Hogan declared a state of emergency. On March 12, he closed down all public schools for two weeks, and banned mass gatherings of 250+ people. With numbers rising and the death toll reaching 3 people, he closed all nonessential businesses on March 23. Two days later, it was announced that schools were to remain closed for four more weeks. On March 29, Maryland hit 15 deaths. The following day, Hogan issued a statewide stay-home executive order. CNN reported that under the stay-at-home order, “residents are only allowed to leave their homes for essential reasons such as visiting grocery stores, pharmacies, to exercise or seek medical attention. It is also being enforced by law enforcement, and those who violate the order could face a misdemeanor and be jailed for up to one year or fined $5,000.” 

As of March 31, there were 1,660 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Maryland, and 388 in Montgomery County, with 18 total deaths. There is no sign of the virus slowing down anytime soon.

In the face of the crisis, Larry Hogan has handled everything swiftly and calmly, taking all the measures necessary to ensure safety and health.