Former Maryland Governor, Larry Hogan, has come out against Project 2025, a conservative policy agenda, in a recent op-ed published in The Washington Post. Hogan described the priorities outlined in the agenda as "absurd and dangerous," expressing concerns about the threat to traditional American values.

In his article, Hogan highlighted the damage caused by the refusal to stand up against radical elements on both the left and the right. He criticized the left for not clearly opposing antisemitic and pro-Hamas protesters, advocates of defunding the police, and the open-borders movement. Regarding the right, Hogan specifically singled out Project 2025 as a clear example of the threat to American values.

Project 2025, a 900-page policy agenda led by the conservative Heritage Foundation, has gained traction as an unofficial presidential transition project. It is divided into five main topics: "Taking the Reins of Government," "The Common Defense," "The General Welfare," "The Economy," and "Independent Regulatory Agencies." The agenda has garnered support from over 100 right-wing organizations and conservatives, leading critics to argue that it could potentially staff a second Trump administration if he is reelected in November.

Hogan argues that calling the ideas in Project 2025 radical would be a disservice, even as some Republicans downplay its influence. He believes that the agenda undermines the principles that have made the nation great.

Of particular concern to Hogan is the plan's goal to remove nonpartisan civil servants and replace them with loyalists to the president. This move could potentially affect more than 150,000 Maryland residents who are federal workers. Hogan warns that this power grab may benefit Republicans in the short term but will ultimately regret empowering a Democratic president with such control.

Furthermore, Hogan points out that the plan could weaken the Department of Justice's independence from the president, which he believes is crucial for impartial justice. He also draws attention to the disbandment of entities such as the Education Department and the Federal Reserve, as well as potential mass deportations, which he deems as absurd and dangerous policies in Project 2025.

Hogan argues that the radical approach of Project 2025 is out of touch with the American people. He emphasizes that most Americans, regardless of party affiliation, seek common-sense solutions to address the cost of living, community safety, and border security while fixing the broken immigration system. Instead of addressing these problems, Hogan believes that Project 2025 opts for a total war against the other side, making it impossible to find common ground.

Hogan's critique of Project 2025 comes as he is running for the vacant Senate seat left by retiring Senator Ben Cardin. His opposition to the conservative agenda reflects his concerns about the potential impact on federal workers and the erosion of government independence.

As the presidential election approaches, debates about different policy agendas will undoubtedly continue, highlighting the divisions within the political landscape and the search for common ground in addressing the nation's challenges.