Franchot spokesperson says comptroller’s school visits are related to funding vote, distances Franchot from political debate

Warren Hansen, a spokesperson for Comptroller Peter Franchot (D), told PolitickerMD.com today the comptroller’s recent visit to Towson schools was part of his “statewide fact-finding tour leading up to next week's school construction funding vote for the upcoming fiscal year,” a statement meant to distance the comptroller from the political debate over his trip.

“As one of three votes on the Board of Public Works, Comptroller Franchot is committed to partnering with school officials to alleviate overcrowding and ensuring that local voices are heard in regards to school construction priorities,” Hansen said.  “Since taking office, he has visited more than two dozen schools across the state – including recent visits to schools in Baltimore, Howard and Harford counties – to receive a first-hand assessment of the needs facing Maryland's schools.” 

In late April, Franchot visited several overcrowded elementary schools in Baltimore County, home of County Executive Jim Smith (D), his potential primary challenger in 2010.

At the time, Smith’s office accused Franchot of political grandstanding.

“This is about Peter Franchot, and Peter Franchot getting his name out in Baltimore County and grandstanding,” Ellen Kobler, a spokesperson for Smith, told The Examiner.  “The comptroller is clearly engaged in yet what again seems to be a series of political stunts.”

Smith, who is bound by term limits and may not seek re-election to his office in 2010, has been a rumored candidate in the comptroller’s race for some time.

Franchot’s political battle with Gov. Martin O’Malley (D) over the slots referendum may aide Smith in his effort.

Hansen declined comment on the potential match-up against Smith.

Rachel Rice, a spokesperson for the county executive, did not return a telephone message.

The Maryland Board of Public Works, which includes O’Malley, Franchot, and Treasurer Nancy K. Kopp, will meet on May 21 to vote on funding for school construction.