Gilchrest's backing disappoints, but does not shock GOP

ST. PAUL, Minn. - Maryland Republicans agree that Republican Congressman Wayne Gilchrest's endorsement of Democrat Frank Kratovil is disappointing but not unexpected.

"I think a lot of Republicans are gonna view this as a little bit of a betrayal of that support that he's had for years," said Justin Ready, who serves as executive director of the Maryland Republican Party.

Gilchrest currently represents Maryland's 1st Congressional District, but was defeated by state Sen. Andy Harris (R-Cockeysville) in the February primary. Gilchrest endorsed state's Attorney Frank Kratovil (D-Stevensville) early Tuesday morning. The two are scheduled to appear together in Annapolis and Easton the same day.

"As a long time fan of Wayne Gilchrest I'm disappointed," said Don Murphy, chair of the Maryland delegation to the Republican National Convention. "I can't even say I'm disappointed in him. I'm just disappointed...period."

Mike Pappas called the endorsement a "non-issue." Pappas serves as second vice-chair of the Baltimore County Republican Central Committee and is the MDGOP parliamentarian.

"I think it's a non issue," said Pappas. "The primary was a real indicator of how folks feel about Congressman Gilchrest."

Many said Gilchrest's record was too liberal and that was why he lost the primary. Meanwhile, Kratovil has attempted to court conservatives in the Republican leaning 1st District by portraying himself as a moderate.

Anne Arundel County Executive John Leopold endorsed Wayne Gilchrest in the primary, but argues that "once primaries are over you have a responsibility to get behind the nominee of our party."

Leopold said he felt strongly about party solidarity. "Unity does not mean unanimity on every issue," he said.

Jamie Falcon -- an alternate delegate from Maryland's 1st District -- said he would continue to follow his convictions in supporting Harris. He did say, however, that it was not inappropriate for Gilchrest to follow his own convictions and endorse Kratovil.

"As far as that race goes. My concern is as a voter," said Falcon. "I liked Wayne Gilchrest. I've gone to several of his town hall meetings over the years. I think he's a fine man but that's not gonna influence my opinion."

Falcon said it was unfortunate when personalities get involved in politics and thinks this may have been the case for Gilchrest.

"I think that everyone knew that he was supporting the opponent the day after the primary," he said.

MDGOP chair James Pelura was a man of only a few words on the matter. "I'm not surprised but disappointed," he said.

Kratovil and Harris are currently competing for Maryland's 1st Congressional District seat. The 1st District includes 12 of the 23 counties in the state, which encompasses all of the Eastern Shore and portions of Harford, Anne Arundel and Baltimore counties.

The Kratovil-Harris race is ranked the 51st most competitive Congressional race in the nation on Politicker.com's Pindell Report. Politicker.com Managing Editor James Pindell lists the race as "Leans Republican."

EARLIER on PolitickerMD.com:

• Gilchrest to back Kratovil