MD-06: Risks and opportunities for both parties as race to replace Trone ramps up
Combine a rare Maryland congressional vacancy with a free ride for most of the elected officials who might seek the seat, and there could be a surfeit of candidates lining up to try to replace U.S. Rep. David Trone (D-6th), who is running for U.S. Senate in 2024.
Trone’s congressional district, which covers part of Montgomery County and most of Western Maryland, is far and away the most competitive in Maryland, and there will be intense interest in both the Democratic and Republican primaries. The timing of the race to replace Trone means most of the current officeholders who might run would not have to sacrifice their seats this cycle, which could increase the number of candidates in both parties.
Given the narrowly divided U.S. House of Representatives, it may not be hyperbole to say that control of the chamber could come down to this district. But both parties may have their work cut out for them.
For the Democrats, the challenge will be finding a nominee who can appeal not just to the liberal activists of Montgomery County, but to more moderate voters in Frederick, Washington, Allegany and Garrett counties. For Republicans, the challenge will be avoiding nominating an overly “Trumpy” candidate who will turn off moderate and suburban voters.
After being represented by Democratic moderates for several years, the district in 1992 was captured by a Republican, former Rep. Roscoe Bartlett, who held the seat for 20 years. But when Democrats in Annapolis redrew the state’s congressional boundaries following the 2010 Census, the 6th District fell back into the Democratic column.
https://www.marylandmatters.org/2023/05/10/risks-and-opportunities-for-both-parties-as-race-to-replace-trone-ramps-up/
