Gilchrest Office Manager says she “couldn’t possibly” vote for Harris

Karen Willis, a longtime District Office Manager/Senior Outreach Coordinator for Rep. Wayne Gilchrest (R-Kennedyville) told PolitickerMD.com that she “couldn’t possibly” vote for state Sen. Andy Harris (R-Cockeysville) in Maryland’s First Congressional District. Harris, the conservative GOP nominee, defeated Gilchrest, a nine-term moderate, in the Feb. 12 primary.

Willis also reiterated her support for Frank Kratovil (D-Stevensville), the Democratic nominee, saying his “positions on the issues are the closest to Wayne’s.”

The office manager said Kratovil’s moderate stances on issues ranging from tax policy, the war in Iraq, and illegal immigration, along with Harris’ “narrow-minded views” on the same issues led to her decision to join the organization “Republicans for Kratovil.”

She also predicted that the Democrat's support with Republicans would help his campaign “with the grassroots.”

When asked if he thought the organization would aide Kratovil, Chris Meekins, Harris’ Campaign Manager, simply said, “No.”

“We’re running our campaign,” Meekins said. “Once people compare the records—they will see a clear distinction.”

Meekins also highlighted his candidates’ support from important members of the state’s Republican establishment, like former Gov. Bob Ehrlich and state Sen. E.J. Pipkin. Pipkin competed against Harris in the congressional primary, placing third behind Gilchrest.

The support from a prominent member of Gilchrest’s inner circle has led to speculation that the congressman will endorse Kratovil.

While nothing official has been announced, Gilchrest hinted that he would not be supporting Harris during an interview last week with Roll Call.

“Let's see, the Republican Party, or my eternal soul?" Gilchrest said.

The congressman could not be reached for comment this afternoon.

Next Tuesday, March 11, “Republicans for Kratovil” will hold a fundraiser for the Democratic nominee in Chestertown.