League's Analysis of Attorney General Race sans Perez

Perez was a great candidate. He had some invigorating ideas which could have jumpstarted an office that's been run by the same man since 1987. He also demonstrated a willingness to buck the establishment in the interest of his constituents.

But rules are the rules. The question is whether this is a good one. On the one hand, Maryland should absolutely utilize the experience and expertise offered by out-of-staters. On the other, its elected officials should enjoy the intimate knowledge of the Free State that can only be gained through longtime residency. Simply put, although outsiders must feel welcomed, Maryland should be run by Marylanders. However, many bright people have realized the joy of Maryland and adopted it as home. What to do, what to do...

The decision's implications for the campaign will likely be minimal. In a July Baltimore Sun poll, Perez trailed the pack with 6 percent. MoCo state's attorney Doug Gansler came in second with 12 percent behind Baltimore attorney Stu Simms' 15 percent. Many believe Perez's 6 percent will jump to the Gansler camp as Tom's support largely came from Montgomery County, where Gansler enjoys broader recognition than Simms (an important factor in down-ballot races). This scenario would even out the score as both struggle to win the currently undecideds. But Perez supporters came from a decidedly liberal wing of the party. Although Simms and Gansler's politics are similar, those liberals could support the black Simms as consummate with their "its about time" attitude. The most probable development, nevertheless, is that Perez supporters will split between Simms and Gansler.

from The League: Reassembled