As Maryland pols jockey for position in next year’s U.S. Senate race, the list of candidates seems to be shrinking. Usually, a candidate statement that they’re “considering” a run for office is a sure sign that a formal announcement — or at least an exploratory committee — is on the way. A month ago, Kathleen Kennedy Townsend said it would be a “dream” to hold the seat being vacated by Barbara Mikulski. She even told Howard Fineman she was running.
The setup was befitting of her namesake, but it was for naught. Robert F. Kennedy’s oldest daughter won’t be getting into the race. According to Roll Call, Kennedy Townsend is set to announce that she is endorsing U.S. Rep. Chris Van Hollen in the race on Monday afternoon.
Following Heather Mizeur’s decision not to jump in, Kennedy Townsend’s move likely means that Van Hollen, Rep. Donna Edwards or another candidate who has yet to announce is successfully clearing the field. There are still a few names left on the list of people who might run, including West Baltimore-based Congressman Elijah Cummings.
