Rivalry intensifies between Md., Va. over finances

Neighboring states at odds over surplus, tax increases The rivalry between Maryland and Virginia — and the national political aspirations of their governors — is heating up as the neighboring states attack each other in a contest to prove fiscal solvency.

Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell has announced a half-billion-dollar budget surplus, drawing the scorn of Maryland Democrats who question his math. At the same time, Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley has warned of potential tax increases, which Virginia Republicans have pounced on.