Once a Gilchrest supporter, Craig stumps for Harris

Harford County Executive David Craig (R) was an early supporter of incumbent Rep. Wayne Gilchrest (R-Kennedyville) in his 2008 campaign for re-election, but even with Gilchrest out of the race, Craig is still backing the Republican candidate.

"Wayne and I are close friends," Craig explained to PolitickerMD.com. "We've known each other since 1990."

Since losing to state Sen. Andy Harris (R-Cockeysville) in February's GOP primary, Gilchrest, a moderate, has been highly critical of the more conservative Harris, indicating that he will not support Harris' candidacy in Maryland's 1st Congressional District.

Craig, however, has made his support for Harris clear.

Appearing at a fundraiser for the state senator last night in Havre de Grace, Craig told PolitickerMD.com that it was "important Andy gets elected and Republicans hold the seat."

He said his decision to support Gilchrest in the primary was largely based on a longtime friendship, saying it was "nothing personal" against Harris.

In addition, Craig said Gilchrest had informed him that 2008 would be his last congressional campaign; Gilchrest was elected in 1990.

He also said he has "called Wayne several times" since the primary, adding, "Losing is not fun."

Now, Craig said he is fully behind Harris, citing his knowledge of Harford County.

"He knows the county," Craig said of Harris, who represents the 7th Legislative District in Baltimore and Harford Counties.

Asked to analyze the race between Harris and Frank Kratovil (D-Stevensville), Craig said, "I think it's Andy's race to win."

A recent internal Kratovil poll showed Harris with a nine point advantage, though Kratovil led by seven points among voters who could identify the candidates.

Craig said he did not think Gilchrest's disapproval of Harris would impact the race, citing the early nature of the primary.

"If the primary had been closer to the general election it might have made a difference," Craig said. "I don't think it will now."