In fact, Mr. Hogan has been shrewd about one big thing: perfectly reading the state’s political mood. Mr. Hogan, who never ran for statewide office before his 2014 gubernatorial campaign, enjoys phenomenal poll numbers. Of 31 sitting Republican governors, Mr. Hogan is one of just two to oppose Mr. Trump. Another tussle is over a $20 million state loan for Northrop Grumman, one of Maryland’s biggest employers, negotiated by Mr. Hogan. It is possible to criticize Mr. Hogan for playing small ball, lacking any grand vision and taking occasionally gratuitous partisan potshots.

Source: Washington Post September 11, 2016 23:03 UTC