BALTIMORE (AP) — Former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley has jumped into the race for the Democratic nomination for president.
It’ll be a longshot challenge to front-runner Hillary Rodham Clinton. But O’Malley is calling for new leadership.
O’Malley made the announcement Saturday in a Baltimore park, telling a crowd of about 1,000 people — “I’m running for you.”
He was Baltimore mayor before winning two terms as governor.
He’s presenting himself to voters as a next generation leader for the party.
O’Malley points to his record on issues such as gay marriage, immigration and economic issues.
He’s
made frequent visits to the early-voting states of Iowa and New
Hampshire. But he’s still largely unknown in a field dominated by
Clinton.
Also in the race is Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders.
O’Malley is holding events in Iowa later Saturday and plans to be in New Hampshire on Sunday.
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A long way to go to 18 candidates (the TeaBagging standard).
Can we make it?
Well, I’m considering a run. I formed an exploratory committee, but it got lost.
As much as I respect O’Malley, I’m not entirely sure how well he’s going to do. We shall have to see.
To date O’Malley has been a Clinton supporter. He may not have the heart to challenge her but he can’t continue to support her. What’s an ambitious pol to do.
Angle for the V.P. spot. He’s young enough to spend two Clinton terms making connections, and still be a “not past it” candidate for President in 2024.