Second In Command

The Baltimore Sun ^ | November 6, 2006 | Editorial

[edpc]

THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR OF Maryland has just one key responsibility under the law: to finish out the term of the state's chief executive if he or she no longer can serve. But a good lieutenant governor can carve out a meaningful role in the administration of the state -- and that potential is what voters should be looking for in a candidate.

Both Democrat Anthony G. Brown and Republican Kristen Cox have experience in government. He served eight years in the state legislature; she's been a Cabinet secretary since 2003.

But of the two, Mr. Brown has the experience and practical know-how that better qualify him to be an effective lieutenant governor -- and to take on the role of governor if called upon. It is puzzling, in fact, that the Democrats have been criticized for supposedly not having an African-American at the top of their ticket, when Mr. Brown brings not only racial diversity but a host of talents to this statewide post.

A Harvard-trained lawyer, he learned the basics of leadership during his five years in the Army, where he served as a helicopter pilot. Mr. Brown remains in the Army reserves and, as a lieutenant colonel, served a tour of duty in Iraq. During his four years at a prominent Washington law firm, Mr. Brown represented investment and securities firms but did enough volunteer legal work to earn the firm's pro bono award.

[edpc]

Well, this is certainly trouble. I'm not the least bit suprised The Sun endorses O'Malley, but to say, "Well.....our black guy beats your blind white chick" certainly looks like desperation.

[CharlesWayneCT]

What is funny is that when Steel was the candidate 4 years ago, the Sun said he was a token black who brought nothing to the position.

[CharlesWayneCT]

Oh, and having served 4 years in what the Sun now calls a "very important position", the Sun still said Steele had no experience and had no accomplishments, having I guess only served as Lt Governor.