Del. McDonough: “Putting People First” Takes a Different Type of Elected Official
March 26, 2008
Although most people believe that politicians are all the same, my experience has been that this assumption is far from the truth. I believe that many elected officials have different approaches to the way they represent the people. During my three terms in public office, I have always had one guiding principle that was based on the belief that the people elected me to do a job. They are the bosses and their interests are the only priority that I have. My legislative agenda reflects that commitment.
My crime victim legislation agenda included Jessica’s Law Part II - Truth in Sentencing. This bill was created to eliminate good time credits and early release for certain types of criminals. Two other public safety measures — the Witness Protection Act and a victim protection act — would also eliminate good time early release credits for any offender who intimidates or attempts to harm a witness in any way. These proposals would mandate capital punishment for a perpetrator who murders a witness. All three of these bills place public safety and crime victims first. Continue reading Del. McDonough: “Putting People First” Takes a Different Type of Elected Official
District 7 Dominoes: Baltimore/Harford Delegates Line Up for a Probable Political Promotion
February 21, 2008
One is too young and inexperienced. Another is too cantankerous and controversial. And the third says he doesn’t even want the job. But odds are, when Republican Andy Harris is elected to Congress this November, one of the three District 7 delegates will move up to fill his seat representing Baltimore and Harford counties in the state senate.
Harris’ surprising upset of nine-term incumbent Wayne Gilchrest in the Republican Primary Election a few weeks ago placed the state senator as the favorite to take over the First District Congressional seat - leaving a prized piece of political real estate vacant and ready for occupancy.
Tradition and law make it exceedingly likely the next Baltimore/Harford state senator will come from the trio of offbeat politicians currently comprising the District 7 delegation. Rick Impallaria, J.B. Jennings and Pat McDonough have stuck together since they were elected to the newly configured district in 2002, but Harris’ impending departure from the senate could change all that. Continue reading District 7 Dominoes: Baltimore/Harford Delegates Line Up for a Probable Political Promotion
The Assembly Line - Checking the Political Pulse in Annapolis
January 11, 2008
For political junkies, it’s the most wonderful time of the year.
The 188 state representatives - 47 senators and 141 delegates - comprising the Maryland General Assembly convened Wednesday for the start of the state’s 425th legislative session - a 90-day affair that is set to adjourn on April 7.
To ring in the new legislative year, The Dagger brings you The Assembly Line - a unique feature that collects locally-sponsored legislation and presents it in a way that lets readers easily access and digest the information. Thanks to the work of our resident wizard Steve, The Assembly Line conveniently scrolls across the The Dagger’s front page and offers a place for supporters, critics and other interested readers to comment and discuss the bills and resolutions with one another.
The Assembly Line is updated several times a day with the newest legislation and the latest information on the status of the bills and resolutions. This is a chance to keep tabs on the local delegates and senators you sent to Annapolis and make sure they are working for you. Have fun while letting them have it!
Now back to Annapolis. Continue reading The Assembly Line - Checking the Political Pulse in Annapolis
