Maryland: Kamenetz's Name Remains

Last week we reported that former Montgomery County Councilwoman Valerie Ervin (D), who was Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz’s running mate until the latter individual’s untimely death, had decided to replace him in the Democratic primary race.  Under Maryland election law, the named Lt. Governor running mate in such a situation can ascend to the Governor’s position, officially withdraw the ticket, or name another individual to replace the deceased candidate.   
This week, state authorities informed Ms. Ervin that while she can now run for Governor in Mr. Kamenetz’s place, her name will not appear on the ballot because it is too late to reverse the printing.  Therefore, Ms. Ervin will have to convince her voters to continue to vote for the late Mr. Kamenetz in order for the tallies to count for her.  Obviously, this procedure lessens her nomination chances.  She faces Prince Georges County Executive Rushern Baker, former NAACP president Ben Jealous, and state Sen. Rich Madaleno (D-Montgomery County) in the June 26th party primary.  The winner opposes Gov. Larry Hogan (R) in the fall. 

​--Jim Ellis