James, Mathias possible contenders for Senate seat

Sen. Lowell Stoltzfus (Aug. 14, 2009) The announcement by veteran Maryland Sen. Lowell Stoltzfus last week that he will not seek re-election has left the Senate race wide open, but potential contenders are not rushing to throw their hats into the ring.

Stoltzfus, who has represented Worcester, Wicomico and Somerset counties as the Republican senator for District 38 since 1992, announced last Thursday he is stepping down at the end of his term to focus on family matters. With the incumbent out of the picture, there is much speculation on who will run for the seat next fall.

Michael James, managing partner of the Carousel Hotel in Ocean City, said on Monday he is "heavily leaning toward running for the Senate seat at this point," but has not yet ruled out a bid for one of the two seats in the House of Delegates also up for grabs in the 2010 election.

"My plan at this point is to get around the district and talk to the voters, the leaders and the folks that supported me and try to make a decision in the next few weeks," he said.

James, a Republican, made a strong bid for the House of Delegates in 2006 and narrowly missed winning one of the two seats. He did not want to run against his Republican counterpart in the Senate, but now that Stoltzfus is out of the race, James is weighing his options.

Delegate Jim Mathias "I think it's important we thank Sen. Stoltzfus for his years of legendary service. He served with distinction and dedication and his will be large shoes to fill," he said.

Another possible contender for the Senate is Delegate Jim Mathias. The Democrat has represented the district in the House since 2006 and is contemplating what seat to seek in 2010.

"In order to best represent the district, I would certainly consider what a run for the Senate would mean," Mathias said on Tuesday. "We have a very challenging session coming up. I want to be able to understand where we are in the House and looking at possibly serving in the Senate."

Mathias, the former mayor of Ocean City, said it is important there is a strong relationship between the district's senators and delegates in order to move legislation to benefit the area. He is speaking with constituents to determine where he can best be of service.

Michael James Regardless of which side of the General Assembly he ultimately decides to seek in the election, James said his top priority would be fiscal responsibility and getting a handle on state spending during the poor economy.

"We have very serious financial issues in the state right now, the most serious I've ever seen. Folks here pay their bills and we live within our means and I believe the voters expect the state government to act in the same manner. Right now, I'm not sure that's what's happening. Fiscal responsibility will be my main focus, whether I run for the Senate or the House," he said.