Baltimore County Executive

Baltimore County Executive Jim SmithAs rumors continue to swirl that Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith will challenge Comptroller Peter Franchot for his seat in the 2010 Democratic primary, a spokesperson for the county executive said Smith's focus was on his present occupation.

"The county executive has long been devoted to not being a lame duck," spokesperson Don Mohler told PolitickerMD.com. "He lets others do the political talking."

Smith, 66, is bound by term limits and can't seek re-election in 2010. A closer examination of his current initiatives may signal an impending campaign battle with Franchot.

Del. Pat McDonough: Politicker PhotoDel. Pat McDonough (R-Middle River) confirmed that he has "great" interest in seeking the position of county executive for Baltimore County in 2010.

"I think it is the second most powerful position in the state," McDonough said of Baltimore County executive, "behind only the governor."

Saying he would have the authority "to get things done" on issues ranging from education to "deteriorating neighborhoods," McDonough said his "high name recognition" and ability to "get Democratic voters" would increase his chances at winning.

A spokesperson for Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith (D) told PolitickerMD.com today that the county executive will "look to remain in public service" when his term expires at the end of 2010, perhaps an indication that he will seek to run against Comptroller Peter Franchot (D) in the 2010 primary.

"He has spent his entire career in public service," spokesperson Don Mohler said of Smith.

The county executive, who was elected to the Baltimore County Council in 1978 and served as Associate Judge of the Circuit Court for Baltimore County from 1985-2001, is currently in his second term as county executive and may not seek a third term.

Mohler would not describe Smith's level of interest in the comptroller's position, saying, "He's focused right now like a laser beam on his initiatives in Baltimore County."

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.

Del. Stephen LaffertyDel. Stephen Lafferty (D-Stoneleigh) told PolitickerMD.com that he would look at the prospects of running for state Senate if Sen. James Brochin (D-Towson) declines to seek re-election in 2010. Brochin has expressed interest in running for the position of county executive in Baltimore County, but has yet to announce any formal plans.

"One always has to keep their options open," Lafferty said, adding that the current buzz surrounding a possible Senate run is "speculation" and "premature."