THE SIGNIFICANCE OF JAMIE RASKIN’S ENDORSEMENT OF RICH MADALENO

There may be many reasons why Politician X endorses Politician Y in a party primary for higher office.  X may have a personal friendship or affinity for Y. X may see Y as extending X’s legacy.  X may be returning the favor for an earlier endorsement by Y.  

None of these reasons are necessarily bad reasons.  But for voters deciding among a number of ideological acceptable candidates, these reasons ought not to be sufficient.  While we may appreciate endorsements as information to be considered in deciding for whom to vote, at bottom, we as voters want to know which candidate is most likely to get the job done.  This is a function of knowledge, experience, proven track record, and commitment to public service. 

That is why Maryland 8^th District Congressman Jamie Raskin’s endorsement of State Senator Rich Madaleno for the Democratic Gubernatorial Nomination is significant.  Jamie has no particular political reason to endorse one of the many candidates, all of whom are progressive.  But in a rousing and inspiring speech before a gathering in Silver Spring recently, Congressman Raskin – who, himself, has demonstrated that he is one of the wisest and committed members of the House of Representatives – explained at length why Rich is the best person for the job.  Jamie noted that right out of graduation from university, Rich began working as a budget analyst for the Maryland General Assembly, and next served as an aide to the Montgomery County Council until being elected to the House of Delegates in 2002 and then the State Senate in 2010.  “He has devoted his entire career to us,” Jamie reminded us. 

Jamie and Rich served together for 10 years in the Maryland Senate, until Jamie was elected to Congress in 2016.  In that time, Jamie explained, Rich established himself as the General Assembly’s “Budget Policy Genius” who knows that the state budget is an ethical document that reflects our priorities.  Jamie described how, on issue after issue, Rich provided the skills and expertise to get important legislation enacted.  Jamie told the assembled group that Rich has been a person who seeks not the “political center” to be positioned politically, but, rather the “moral center” from which to lead.

 Jamie Raskin himself provides a “moral center” in the House of Representatives.  Rich would provide that as Governor.  As Jamie told us, “Good enough ain’t enough.  We need the best.”

Also, please check out Jamie Raskin's endorsement video of Rich:   

https://vimeo.com/249565004

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO DONATE, GO TO madalenoformaryland.com