Maryland Republican Party
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The Maryland Republican Party is the branch of the Republican Party located in the state of Maryland. It is historically the underdog party in state politics.
The Republican Party is currently the minority party in both houses of the Maryland General Assembly. In the House of Delegates, the Republicans control a mere 43 seats to the Democrats' 98. In the Maryland State Senate, the Republicans control 14 seats to the Democrats' 33. Because of this nearly two-to-one government majority, predominantly Republican areas of Maryland, such as the Eastern Shore, become worried that their representatives' voices are not being heard.
The Republican Party enjoys widespread support from Western Maryland and the Eastern Shore, both of which are mainly rural. In other areas of the state such as heavily populated Montgomery County, Prince George's County, and the City of Baltimore, Republicans are a small minority.
In comparison to the national Republican Party, the Maryland Republican Party is far more moderate, liking to see itself as being in the vein of Abraham Lincoln rather than Pat Buchanan. This is especially true concerning social issues. For example, Republican Congressman Wayne Gilchrest is pro-choice on the abortion issue.
Important current members of the Maryland Republican Party include former Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, former Lt. Governor Michael S. Steele, Chairman of the Maryland Republican Party John M. Kane, Congressman Wayne Gilchrest, and Congressman Roscoe Bartlett.
Important historical members of the Maryland Republican Party have included former Governor and Vice President Spiro T. Agnew and former Senator Charles Mathias.
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