Annapolis, MD, January 21, 2026
Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan has announced he will not seek re-election, drawing an end to speculation about a political comeback. His decision has significant implications for the Maryland Republican Party, which now faces the challenge of selecting a viable candidate against incumbent Democratic Governor Wes Moore in the upcoming election. Hogan’s withdrawal from the race may solidify the Democratic hold on the state’s executive branch, as the GOP must navigate a predominantly Democratic landscape moving forward.
Baltimore, MD: Larry Hogan Declines 2026 Gubernatorial Run
ANNAPOLIS, MD — Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan announced on January 20, 2026, that he will not seek another term as governor, ending months of speculation about a potential political comeback. In an op-ed published in The Baltimore Sun, Hogan stated that he cares deeply about the state of Maryland and remains concerned about the direction of the nation’s politics, but he has no intention of running for office again. He emphasized the importance of looking forward, not back, noting that the future of Maryland and America belongs to the people, not any one person or party.
Hogan, a Republican, served as Maryland’s 62nd governor from 2015 to 2023, leaving office with high approval ratings. He became the first Republican elected to two terms as governor in Maryland in over 60 years. After his term ended, Hogan ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate in 2024, losing to Democrat Angela Alsobrooks. Despite initial speculation about a potential gubernatorial run in 2026, Hogan’s announcement has now laid those rumors to rest.
Implications for the Maryland Republican Party
The decision has significant implications for the Maryland Republican Party. With Hogan out of the race, the GOP now faces the challenge of identifying a candidate who can mount a competitive campaign against incumbent Democratic Governor Wes Moore. Moore, who succeeded Hogan in 2023, has maintained positive approval ratings throughout his first term and has indicated plans to seek re-election in 2026. The absence of a high-profile Republican challenger like Hogan could notably influence the dynamics of the upcoming election.
The Political Landscape
Hogan’s announcement reflects broader trends within the Maryland political landscape, which is characterized by a Democratic majority. Democrats currently hold all statewide offices and supermajorities in both houses of the state legislature. The 2026 gubernatorial election is poised to be a pivotal event, as both parties strategize to secure the governorship. Hogan’s decision not to run alleviates a potential obstacle for Moore’s re-election campaign, potentially solidifying the Democratic hold on the state’s executive branch and fostering an environment where Democratic policies may continue to thrive.
The Next Steps for the GOP
As the political landscape evolves, all eyes will be on the Maryland Republican Party. The party must now pivot to find a candidate who can energize the base and attract independent voters, bridging the gap in a predominantly Democratic state. Engaging with local business leaders and entrepreneurs could play a key role in crafting a resonant message that emphasizes economic growth, individual achievement, and the benefits of limited regulation.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The next election cycle will test the resilience and adaptability of the Maryland Republican Party. It will be crucial for them to capitalize on local economic conditions, identifying common concerns among Marylanders that resonate beyond party lines. This involves focusing on entrepreneurial innovation, small-business resilience, and creating opportunities that foster job growth throughout the state.
Key Takeaways
In summary, Larry Hogan’s decision not to seek another term for governor has significant ramifications for both the Maryland political landscape and the Republican Party. As both parties gear up for the 2026 gubernatorial election, the dynamics will shift, placing a spotlight on candidate selection and the challenges facing the GOP in a state with a strong Democratic identity. With reduced competition at the top of the ticket, the importance of grassroots engagement in local businesses and community initiatives cannot be overstated as Maryland approaches this pivotal electoral moment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What did Larry Hogan announce on January 20, 2026?
Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan announced that he will not seek another term as governor, ending months of speculation about a potential political comeback. In an op-ed published in The Baltimore Sun, Hogan stated, “I care deeply about the state of Maryland, and I remain concerned about the direction of our nation’s politics, but I have no intention of running for office again.” He emphasized the importance of looking forward, not back, and noted that the future of Maryland and America belongs to the people, not any one person or party.
What is Larry Hogan’s political background?
Hogan, a Republican, served as Maryland’s 62nd governor from 2015 to 2023. He left office with high approval ratings, having been the first Republican elected to two terms as governor in Maryland in over 60 years. After his term ended, Hogan ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate in 2024, losing to Democrat Angela Alsobrooks. Despite initial speculation about a potential gubernatorial run in 2026, Hogan’s recent announcement has put those rumors to rest.
What does Hogan’s decision mean for the Maryland Republican Party?
The decision has significant implications for the Maryland Republican Party. With Hogan out of the race, the GOP now faces the challenge of identifying a candidate capable of mounting a competitive campaign against incumbent Democratic Governor Wes Moore. Moore, who succeeded Hogan in 2023, has maintained positive approval ratings throughout his first term and has indicated plans to seek re-election in 2026. The absence of a high-profile Republican challenger like Hogan may influence the dynamics of the upcoming election.
How does Hogan’s decision affect the 2026 Maryland gubernatorial election?
Hogan’s announcement also reflects broader trends within the Maryland political landscape. The state has been characterized by a Democratic majority, with Democrats holding all statewide offices and supermajorities in both houses of the state legislature. The 2026 gubernatorial election is expected to be a pivotal event, with both parties strategizing to secure the governorship. Hogan’s decision not to run removes a potential obstacle for Moore’s re-election campaign, potentially solidifying the Democratic hold on the state’s executive branch.
Key Features of the 2026 Maryland Gubernatorial Election
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incumbent Governor | Wes Moore (Democrat) |
| Former Governor’s Decision | Larry Hogan (Republican) will not seek re-election |
| Political Landscape | Maryland has a Democratic majority in statewide offices and the state legislature |
| Implications | Hogan’s decision may influence the dynamics of the upcoming election, potentially solidifying the Democratic hold on the state’s executive branch |
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Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
