Indications For Duncan Look Good -- at Home

It should be noted that Isiah Leggett , a former council member and Democratic candidate for county executive, is also remaining neutral in the Duncan-O'Malley race. Leggett, whose position on the ICC remains murky, could capitalize on whatever Duncan-fatigue exists with next year's electorate.

As for the Council's lone Republican, Howard A. Denis (Bethesda-Potomac), he plans to toe the party line and support Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. (R). That could be a risky stance for Denis, who must stand for reelection in a heavily Democratic district.

Presley Aiming for Council?

The dogged work of those Clarksburg women who led the effort to expose widespread building violations in Clarksburg Town Center has some Rockville gossips wondering whether one of them plans to run for the County Council next year.

The scandal over the violations threatens to spill over into next year's election, which could pose a challenge to Knapp. Republicans believe they have a chance to unseat Knapp, who represents Clarksburg.

And it just so happens that Amy Presley , the leader and public face of the Clarksburg residents' campaign to unearth developer misconduct, is a registered Republican.

In an interview, Presley says "various people and various groups" are urging her to run for the council. But Presley said she doesn't plan to run for the seat.

Well, at least not yet.

"I've been approached by several people and I keep saying it is not something I am giving a lot of thought to," Presley said. "I am not saying no, but it's nothing I have a desire to do. Sometimes, I think you can better effect change from the outside."

But Presley offered up this advice for Knapp.

"If he really digs in there and makes sure the message is sent to developers this will not be tolerated in Montgomery County . . . I think it would be natural to reelect him. If he doesn't, I think people will be asking the question, 'What have you accomplished?' "

Courting the Women's Vote

The two Democratic candidates for county executive -- Silverman and Leggett -- continue to demonstrate the political force that women wield in Montgomery County.

Earlier this year, Leggett hosted a forum on women's issue that attracted several hundred female supporters.