Maryland Is Falling Apart — Only Bob Ehrlich Can Fix It!
By Scott McCann
The stakes could not be higher as Maryland barrels toward the 2026 gubernatorial election. Our state faces growing fiscal challenges, transportation gridlock, an education system crying out for reform, and an environment in need of serious stewardship — all demanding real leadership, not platitudes or partisanship.
In these trying times, Maryland doesn’t just need another political newcomer with big promises. We need a proven leader with a record of results. We need someone who understands that governance is about people, not press releases. Maryland needs Bob Ehrlich back in the Governor’s Office.
During his tenure from 2003 to 2007, Governor Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. delivered exactly the kind of pragmatic, effective leadership Maryland desperately needs once again. His administration stood as a model of fiscal responsibility, bipartisan cooperation, and visionary public service. Rather than chase headlines, Ehrlich rolled up his sleeves and got the job done.
And the results speak for themselves:
Fiscal Responsibility: When Ehrlich took office, Maryland was drowning in a $4 billion deficit. He had transformed it into a $2.3 billion surplus when he left. That’s the kind of stewardship Maryland taxpayers deserve again.
Job Creation: Under his leadership, Maryland added 100,000 private-sector jobs, dramatically lowering the unemployment rate and restoring hope to thousands of families.
Educational Advancement: Ehrlich didn’t just talk about improving education; he fully funded the Thornton Commission recommendations, strengthening public education across the state.
Charter School Innovation: Maryland’s first public charter school law bears his signature — a legacy of expanding educational choices for parents and students.
Environmental Leadership: He pushed through the Chesapeake Bay Restoration Act, one of the most significant environmental achievements in state history, showing that conservation and prosperity can coexist.
Transportation Initiatives: Governor Ehrlich jump-started 123 transportation projects across Maryland, including the long-awaited Intercounty Connector, making commutes faster and safer.
Public Safety Enhancements: He toughened penalties on sex offenses, drunk driving, and witness intimidation, protecting Maryland’s families and communities.
Homeland Security Focus: In a post-9/11 world, Ehrlich established Maryland’s first Office of Homeland Security, strengthening our preparedness and resilience.
Disability Advocacy: Under his leadership, Maryland became the first state to create a cabinet-level Department of Disabilities — a move applauded nationwide.
Higher Education Support: He doubled funding for need-based college scholarships, opening the doors of higher education to thousands more Marylanders.
Veteran Services: Ehrlich didn’t forget those who served. He expanded and improved services for our veterans, living up to Maryland’s sacred duty to its heroes.
Bipartisan Collaboration: Unlike today’s hyper-partisan climate, Governor Ehrlich reached across the aisle to deliver real results for all Marylanders, not just for one party.
Economic Development: He positioned Maryland as a national leader in technology and innovation, strengthening our economy for the future.
Healthcare Policy Balance: Ehrlich worked to oppose reckless legislation that would have crushed small businesses, striking a smart balance between economic growth and public health.
Infrastructure Improvement: He secured vital federal funds to reduce congestion and modernize Maryland’s aging transportation networks.
Juvenile Justice Reform: He championed education for at-risk youth in juvenile facilities, offering them a second chance at success.
Tax Policy Defender: Ehrlich successfully defeated $7.5 billion in proposed tax hikes, protecting Maryland families and businesses from being squeezed by big government.
Minority Business Advancement: His administration supported policies that helped minority-owned businesses thrive, promoting true economic inclusivity.
Legislative Expertise: Having served both in the Maryland House of Delegates and the U.S. House of Representatives, Ehrlich understands how to navigate legislative hurdles to get things done.
Community Commitment: Even after leaving office, Bob Ehrlich remains deeply engaged with Marylanders, showing that public service isn’t a chapter in his life — it’s his calling.
Governor Ehrlich’s balanced, pragmatic, and compassionate approach to leadership remains a shining example of what Maryland can achieve when politics takes a back seat to people.
We cannot afford to gamble with inexperience as we face mounting economic uncertainty, strained public services, and a government increasingly out of touch with everyday Marylanders. Bob Ehrlich offers the kind of tested leadership that can restore Maryland’s promise.
The 2026 election isn’t just another political contest — it’s a crossroads for the future of our state. Let’s choose wisely. Let’s bring Bob Ehrlich back to Annapolis.