Steele may prefer to wait it out to succeed Ehrlich as Governor in 2010 (and Ehrlich would also have to find a top-notch running mate, perhaps trying to lure disgruntled Black PG Democrat Wayne Curry to switch is one possibility). I'd be surprised if the MD 'Rats would even nominate Mfume for the Senate (and, of course, the biggest rumblings from Black Dems in MD is the party's refusal to advance them to the highest positions despite representing a huge % of the state party). Mfume vs. Steele would be a very interesting contest, regardless. But is it an absolute certainty that Sarbanes will retire ? I thought he wouldn't leave the Senate except in a bodybag.
"But is it an absolute certainty that Sarbanes will retire?"