The three-way Democratic primary race for comptroller has grabbed the most attention, largely through the antics of incumbent William Donald Schaefer. But Republicans have a less visible four-way contest for the post, despite Gov. Robert Ehrlich?s desire to avoid a strong challenge for his Democratic ally.
“I basically announced as aninsurance policy in terms of what is happening in the Democratic primary,” said Stephen Abrams, a financial consultant serving his third-term on the Montgomery County school board. “I would view a loss by Schaefer in the primary as creating an open seat.”
Abrams, a partner in a venture capital firm who worked in the Reagan and first Bush administrations in Washington, notes that he is “the only one running who currently serves in public office,” and was elected county-wide in the state?s largest county. He does not believe any Republican could beat Schaefer in the general election. If re-elected, Ehrlich “needs an independent, right-thinking comptroller ? to provide a check on a runaway legislature,” Abrams said.
Also in the GOP race are Gene Zarwell, who got 31 percent of vote running against Schaefer in 2002; Anne McCarthy, former dean and a professor at the University of Baltimore business school; and Mark Spradley, executive vice president of a private investment firm.
Zarwell said Schaefer “deserves better than most people give him, including the media.” But he believes it?s time for Schaefer to go.
“I?m hearing that from a lot of people,” said Zarwell, a perennial candidate who has run repeatedly for Senate and Congress.
Zarwell wants to “bring responsibility, accountability and integrity with taxpayer money” to the office. “We have the most corrupt government” in the nation, rivaling New Jersey, he said.
In a recent interview, McCarthy said, “This is the first time in decades that anyone has had a chance against William Donald Schaefer,” though “I can?t criticize him for what he has done.”
“I think the comptroller should be more than a tax collector,” she said.
“Tax policies can be crafted to promote small- and medium-size business growth.”
When he filed his candidacy last month, Spradley, of Montgomery County, said, “I believe Marylanders want a comptroller who stands for traditional Republican principles ? fiscal responsibility and personal freedom ? and who will be an inclusive, unifying voice for the people of Maryland.”
