Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, the winner of the Republican Senate primary in Maryland, is making a bold pitch to Democrats and independent voters as he seeks to bridge the partisan divide in his bid for the Senate. Hogan, a former two-term moderate Republican governor, aims to convince voters that he will be the same kind of bipartisan leader as a U.S. senator that he was as governor.

In a video released by the Hogan campaign, words of praise for the former governor came from his Democratic rivals. Angela Alsobrooks, Prince George's County executive, expressed a "wonderful working relationship" with Hogan and his administration. Meanwhile, Representative David Trone acknowledged Hogan's willingness to work across the aisle, stating that it resonates with voters. Democratic Governor Wes Moore also applauded Hogan's leadership, and even President Biden commended Hogan for doing a "heck of a job."

Hogan's popularity with Maryland voters is evident, as polls indicate that he remains very popular. His late entry into the Senate race has caused a headache for Democrats, who now have to defend an open seat in a state that was previously considered safe territory. While Hogan has won statewide elections before, winning a Senate election in Maryland, known as a blue state, may prove to be a challenging task.

Nevertheless, Hogan remains determined to overcome these hurdles. In an interview with Fox News, he acknowledged that Maryland is "arguably the bluest state in the country," and that he will always be the underdog. However, he plans to convince Democrats and independents that he will be the same bipartisan leader in the Senate as he was as governor.

Key issues in the race include abortion rights. Alsobrooks has emphasized Hogan's stance against a national law to protect abortion rights, while Hogan has reassured Maryland women that he will continue to protect their right to make their own reproductive health decisions.

Democrats are keenly aware of the importance of the Maryland Senate race in their efforts to defend their fragile majority in the Senate. They recognize that Hogan's candidacy adds significant pressure, as he is well-liked by voters and has a proven track record of reaching across the aisle.

As the general election draws near, it is clear that Hogan's campaign is focused on presenting him as a true independent and bipartisan leader who delivers results. While Maryland has not elected a Republican senator in nearly four decades, Hogan remains undeterred and is determined to make his mark on the race.

Only time will tell if Hogan's message resonates with Maryland voters and if he is able to make history as a Republican senator in a deeply blue state. The general election in November will be a critical showdown that may decide the balance of power in the Senate.