"The fact nobody challenged Chris in the primary from Montgomery County, where there are many ambitious politicians, is a sign to me of his strength," said Montgomery County State's Attorney Douglas F. Gansler (D).
Van Hollen's stock soared among some Democrats last year with his early criticism of President Bush's decision to invade Iraq. "I do think the country has moved closer to the position I articulated and my concerns," Van Hollen said.
Rep. Chris Van Hollen (D) says that being in the minority party "means you've got to sort of refocus your strategy."
(Michael Lutzky -- The Washington Post)
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Rep. Chris Van Hollen (D)
Born: Jan. 10, 1959, in Karachi, Pakistan.
Education: bachelor of arts degree, Swarthmore College, 1983; master's degree, Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government, 1985; Georgetown University Law Center, 1999.
Career: lawyer.
Residence: Kensington.
Family: married, three children.
Campaign theme: "Making a difference for people by making a difference on issues."
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 | | Full coverage of races and winners in the Nov. 2 elections:
• Results: D.C. | Maryland | Virginia
• Washington in Red and Blue: Compare how area residents cast their votes in the 2000 and 2004 presidential elections.
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On most issues, Van Hollen usually sticks with the party leadership, including opposition to Bush's tax cuts. His positions have earned him endorsements from a range of abortion-rights, environmental and labor groups.
While Floyd frequently says Van Hollen "is too liberal even for Montgomery County," the incumbent doesn't try to run from the label. "I think my principles reflect the values and priorities of the community," Van Hollen said.
Van Hollen is a prolific fundraiser and has banked about $1.5 million over the past two years. More than two-thirds of donations came from individuals, according to the Center for Responsive Politics.
As of Oct. 1, Van Hollen had $800,000 on hand, fueling speculation that he is considering an eventual U.S. Senate run. He dismisses such talk.
Van Hollen will have to continue to pick his battles if the GOP stays in control.
A few months ago, he went to Miller during a hearing and said he wanted to fight to restore money to a particular education program. Miller responded that it wasn't the right time to provoke the GOP.
Van Hollen shrugged, slumped back into his chair and said: "All right. We'll catch 'em next time."
Tomorrow: Republican challenger Charles R. Floyd.
