Maryland Senate Minority Leader Hershey Explores 2026 Gubernatorial Run, Citing Need for Political Balance

Maryland Senate Minority Leader Stephen S. Hershey (R-Upper Shore) has formed an exploratory committee to consider a 2026 gubernatorial bid, emphasizing the need for political balance in a state he believes has moved too far to the left under Democratic control. Hershey stated he expects to decide by year's end whether to challenge incumbent Governor Wes Moore (D), who is virtually certain to be the Democratic nominee.

Hershey explained that supporters recently approached him about running, with one asking if such a campaign was truly necessary. In an interview with Maryland Matters, he argued that real competition is essential to provide voters with meaningful choices and maintain political equilibrium. Without genuine opposition, Hershey contends, Maryland loses balance and there is no incentive for moderation in governance.

The Republican leader specifically pointed to Governor Moore and the current composition of both the state Senate and House of Delegates as evidence that Maryland has shifted too far leftward. Hershey believes the political pendulum needs to swing back toward center, stating that achieving greater balance would be a significant contribution he could make to the state's political landscape. His decision to form the exploratory committee solidified after Ed Hale Sr., a lifelong Democrat, announced he would switch parties and run for governor as a Republican.