Never mind that Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith still has 1,358 days left on the job.
The county?s two-term limit and a looming open seat have local politicians eyeing Smith?s job, saying it?s none too soon to start planning for what?s expected to be a hotly contested 2010 race.
“I?m thinking about running ? in fact, I don?t know anyone who isn?t going to run,” said longtime Republican state Del. Pat McDonough, who lives in Middle River. “It?s going to be huge.”
McDonough rattled off a handful of likely candidates including Democratic state Sens. Jim Brochin and Katherine Klausmeier as well as Del. Jimmy Malone, none of whom independently confirmed by press time.
Several sitting county council members said they, too, could be comfortable as top administrator.
“Oh yeah, I?m definitely interested,” said Councilman Joe Bartenfelder, a Democrat who represents the county?s sixth district. “Of course, it?s too early to declare at this point.”
Other Democratic council members expressing interest are Catonsville?s Sam Moxley, Dundalk?s John Olszewski and Pikesville?s Kevin Kamenetz ? the latter two after warning they will in the meantime focus on local issues, but asking who else was planning a bid.
Perry Hall resident Vince Gardina, who represents the county?s fifth district, said he hasn?t made a decision yet and District 4 Councilman Ken Oliver said “it?s too far down the road.”
Some political observers speculated former Gov. Robert Ehrlich, who grew up in Arbutus, could return to his roots and make a bid. But filing rules require candidates must be at least 25 and live in the county for at least five years preceding the election.
The prospect of many challengers isn?t daunting the likely candidates, either. Kamenetz said “The more the merrier,” and Olszewskisaid a tentative list isn?t dependable.
“I don?t think anyone will say they are going to rule it out,” he said.
