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District 17


Adam: Senator Jennie Forehand has been outraised by former Delegate and Senate challenger Cheryl Kagan two years in a row. The incumbent has to do something – anything – to slow down the challenger’s momentum. House Majority Leader Kumar Barve did not work that hard to raise money but could access it if necessary. Delegate Jim Gilchrist turned in the worst performance of any MoCo incumbent except for Delegate Hank Heller (D-19). The State Board of Elections has no report for Delegate Luiz Simmons. If Forehand drops out and Simmons runs against Kagan for the Senate seat, expect Gaithersburg City Council Member Ryan Spiegel, a 2006 Delegate candidate, to run again. Spiegel would be the early favorite for an open seat.

Marc: Jim Gilchrist spent over $40,000 in 2006 and should get it into gear for 2010. If there is any incumbent movement in the district, Ryan Spiegel may not be the only challenger and Gilchrist could face a tough campaign quickly. School Board member Laura Berthiaume ran in the district in 2006 and Rockville is filled with politicians who would not mind moving up.