Spotlight Is On Calvert's Hard-Run House Race

When he first ran for commissioner in 1998, one of his major campaign promises was to preserve that rural nature by managing growth.

"He's kept that promise," said Robert W. Reed, a county Republican Central Committee member. "He's kept Calvert a rural county and kept us financially on an even keel."

During his two terms, Hale noted, the county has turned a shortfall of $2.5 million in fiscal 1999 to a surplus of $3 million in fiscal 2006.

As a delegate, he said, "I'd like to bring the Maryland legislature closer to the moderate position. I see things like the Wal-Mart [health insurance] bill and [utility] deregulation that just don't make sense.

"Now, one person can't make all the difference; I'm not naive," he added, "but going to the legislature, I would try to bring it a little closer to what the citizens want."

His main focus would be on the environment, education and creating a strong economy, he said.

"We especially have to keep the state from passing down unfunded mandates," he said, referring to state laws that require local governments to take actions without state financial support.

District 27B, which Hale and Kullen hope to represent, is split between the parties, with 10,442 registered Democrats, 9,598 Republicans and 4,115 independents, according to election officials.

Turnout and independents will be keys, Hale and Kullen agreed.

"It's going to be close," Mister said. "When you add everything up, all their advantages and disadvantages, it could be really, really close."