Super PAC Pouring $18 Million Into Ads Supporting Larry Hogan

Maryland’s Future Super PAC has committed $18.3 million in advertising to propel Larry Hogan’s Senate campaign.

At a Glance

Former Gov. Larry Hogan (R) is receiving significant super PAC funding for his Senate race in Maryland.
The super PAC Maryland’s Future has committed $18.3 million for ads to support Hogan.
Public polling shows Angela Alsobrooks (D) leading Hogan by solid margins.
Republicans argue internal polling shows a closer race.

Major Super PAC Funding Boosts Hogan’s Senate Campaign

Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan is the beneficiary of substantial financial backing from Maryland’s Future, a super PAC. The group has booked $18.3 million worth of advertising to support Hogan’s bid for the U.S. Senate. Billionaire Ken Griffin significantly contributed, donating $10 million to the PAC. Maryland’s Future plans nearly $3 million a week in ad spending until October 22.

Public polls indicate that Hogan trails behind his Democratic opponent, Angela Alsobrooks. Alsobrooks, the Prince George County Executive, leads Hogan by solid margins. However, Republicans argue internal polls suggest a much tighter race, indicating they believe Hogan has a viable path to victory.

Mystery Hogan super PAC enters Maryland Senate race https://t.co/EQSW10yoen

— Axios (@axios) September 24, 2024

Significance of Super PAC Donations

Super PAC donations are playing a crucial role in this high-stakes race. Not only has Maryland’s Future committed an overwhelming amount, but other Democratic and Republican super PACs are also making substantial financial commitments. Women Vote!, affiliated with EMILY’s List, is spending $4.8 million to support Alsobrooks. Conversely, Hogan and his allies have reserved $32 million in total ad spending compared to $13.9 million by Alsobrooks and her allies.

Republicans are outspending Democrats two-to-one in the race. Despite this financial advantage, Maryland has not elected a Republican senator since 1980, painting Hogan as the GOP’s best chance given his popularity in the state. As Governor, Hogan was known for his moderate approach, which could attract swing voters.

Challenges Ahead for Both Candidates

While Hogan is benefiting from substantial financial support, he still faces significant challenges. President Joe Biden won Maryland by 30 points in 2020, indicating the state’s strong Democratic lean. Nevertheless, Hogan remains a well-known figure, potentially giving him an edge over Alsobrooks, who requires increased visibility in her campaign. Senator Gary Peters emphasized the need for Alsobrooks to ramp up her visibility efforts.

Rep. Jamie Raskin believes Vice President Kamala Harris’s influence will help Alsobrooks by energizing her base. Hogan, meanwhile, has made it clear he will not support or vote for former President Donald Trump. Hogan and Alsobrooks have yet to agree on a debate, leaving Maryland voters to closely watch this ongoing contentious battle.