A CONVERSATION WITH MARYLAND’S 62ND GOVERNOR LARRY HOGAN

AN EXCLUSIVE WJJ INTERVIEW A CONVERSATION WITH MARYLAND’S 62ND GOVERNOR LARRY HOGAN

In an era calling for resilient leadership, Governor Hogan has exemplified just that through his remarkable journey from a cancer survivor to a two-term governor of Maryland. His administration has been characterized by groundbreaking policies, including aggressive measures against anti-Semitism and robust support for Israel, highlighted by his historic move against the BDS movement. Our extensive conversation with Governor Hogan touched on his strategic decisions to safeguard Jewish educational and religious centers, his impactful visit to Yad Vashem post-cancer treatment, and his ongoing efforts to foster educational collaborations with Israeli institutions. He shared anecdotes from his interactions with global figures like Robert Kraft, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in tackling issues such as anti-Semitism. We also discussed his candidature for the Senate, driven by a deep concern for the nation's future, and his personal insights into the evolving role of religion in society.

Sender Gross; Washington Jewish Journal: Governor Hogan, thank you so much for graciously allowing us to come to your beautiful offices in Annapolis. For all those who are listening, my name is Sender Gross. I'm here with my cousin, Dovie Neuberger. Governor, thank you so much for having us.

Governor Larry Hogan: It's a pleasure, welcome, feel free to feel at home here. I'm really looking forward to speaking with you. I've heard great things about this publication—congratulations on the inaugural edition. It's always refreshing to see new voices in media, especially those that represent such a vibrant community.

We're really grateful for your time, Governor. Our research has revealed some truly impressive aspects of your career.

Thank you, that’s very kind of you to say. I've always aimed to serve with integrity and dedication. It's encouraging to hear that our efforts are resonating with people from various communities.

How do you navigate the political landscape here in Maryland, especially being a Republican governor in such a Democratic state?

Governor Hogan: That's a great question. It’s all about finding common ground. Despite our differences, there's a lot we can achieve by focusing on what unites us. Being in a state as blue as Maryland challenges me to be bipartisan and work across the aisle, which I believe is something that can benefit our state greatly. This approach has not only helped bridge gaps but also facilitated meaningful legislative progress.

It's interesting how you've garnered significant support from the Orthodox community. Could you share how that came about?

I deeply value the relationship we've built with the Jewish community. My commitment as an ally of Israel is something that I take seriously, and it’s been rewarding to see that recognized on a national level. The Jewish community has contributed immensely to the cultural and social fabric of Maryland, and my administration is committed to supporting and protecting this vibrant community. The Orthodox community's support was crucial in my first campaign. Their unified backing made a big difference, and it’s a testament to our shared values and goals. I believe that when leaders show genuine commitment to the community's needs, that resonates well and helps build lasting relationships. The support from the Orthodox community has been a cornerstone of my efforts to create a more inclusive Maryland.

On a broader scale, how have you addressed the challenges in engaging with more liberal Jewish communities?

Engagement is key. We didn't see immediate success, but by consistently showing up and demonstrating our commitment to their concerns, we began to make significant inroads. It's important to me that all voices are heard and valued in our governance, regardless of political leanings. Through dialogue and perseverance, we've started to see changes in perception and increased collaboration.

With rising concerns about anti-Semitism and support for Israel, how do you position yourself in these critical debates?

This is a pivotal time. The increase in anti-Semitism and the debates around support for Israel require us to be vigilant and proactive. My stance is clear—I stand with Israel, and I fight against anti-Semitism in all its forms. We need to ensure that Maryland is a place where support for Israel and Jewish communities is strong and unwavering. It's crucial that we not only address these issues as they arise but also work proactively to educate and foster understanding among all our citizens.

This is a pivotal time. The increase in anti-Semitism and the debates around support for Israel require us to be vigilant and proactive. My stance is clear—I stand with Israel, and I fight against anti-Semitism in all its forms. We need to ensure that Maryland is a place where support for Israel and Jewish communities is strong and unwavering. It's crucial that we not only address these issues as they arise but also work proactively to educate and foster understanding among all our citizens.

Dovie Neuberger: Governor, you attended Florida State University, a school more noted for its college football and social scene than for producing politicians. This is quite refreshing to those of us young people who are disillusioned with career politicians. Could you share with us how you entered politics and detail a bit about your journey?

Governor Hogan: Absolutely. I've been surrounded by politics most of my life. My father was in Congress during the '70s. After my parents divorced, I moved to Florida with my mom. We didn't have much money; I was just a regular middle-class, even lower-middle-class guy, living with a single mom. I finished high school in Florida, and at the time, you received free tuition at any state university. I chose Florida State because it was in the state capital and offered a solid government program, which was affordable compared to the more prestigious colleges. Though I might not have had the grades for those top schools, I worked my way through college at FSU, where I received an excellent education and even enjoyed some great college football. It was a fun experience. Regarding your comment about not seeming like a typical politician, I hear that often. People in Maryland tell me I come across as a regular guy, which I am, and that’s not an act. That authenticity, I believe, has been key to my success.

I'm curious because you mentioned your dad was in politics. A lot of times you have kids of people in politics that don't want to get involved. They see what it does to the family, the spotlight, but you chose to. What was your relationship like with your dad when he was in politics?

Governor Larry Hogan: It was good. Look, I've always had an interest in politics, although I spent four decades in business, not wanting to be a professional politician. From my father, I learned effective strategies for persuading people to vote, but also the importance of not spending a lifetime in politics. It's healthy to have a separate career and then, if it feels right, to give back later in life. I was elected governor in my 50s, my first ever elected office.

Your father was notably the first Republican to call for Nixon's impeachment during Watergate. Today, we see a politicization of legal mechanisms that resembles actions from a third-world country. Looking back, do you think his decision had unintended negative consequences on how politics is played today?

It's a different era now, where the justice system is often manipulated for political gain. Back in the '70s, impeachment was a significant and rare action. My father was a staunch supporter of Nixon and a defender against partisan attacks until the evidence was undeniable. He was the first to declare Nixon's actions impeachable, leading to Nixon’s resignation about ten days later. Reflecting on the 50th anniversary of Watergate, it's clear the political landscape has dramatically shifted.

Do you recall your feelings as a child during that tumultuous time?

Yes, it was a challenging period. My father feared it might end his political career. He had to set aside personal and party loyalties to do what he believed was right for the country, even though it angered many. Despite the initial backlash, this action is what he is most remembered for, celebrated even, because he stood up for his principles.

Did your father maintain a relationship with Nixon after the impeachment?

They didn’t stay in close contact, but the Nixon Library and others have reached out over the years. There's a mutual understanding of the reasons behind the actions taken, and frankly, Nixon's resignation averted a potential prolonged national crisis, which has brought a certain appreciation for the tough decisions made during that period.

Speaking of going against the grain, you are unique in that you're a Republican who does not fall in line with Trump. How has this stance influenced your political career?

Not being a career politician, I see no necessity in blindly adhering to party lines. My responsibility has always been to represent all citizens of Maryland, irrespective of their political affiliation. When I was governor, about 70% of the voters were Democrats, yet my duty was to serve every Marylander equally. Throughout my tenure, I stood up to both Democrats and Republicans whenever I believed their actions did not serve our state's best interests. This independence, though rare today, has not only defined my tenure but also reinforced the public's trust in honest and courageous leadership.

Your electoral success in Maryland was remarkable. Do you believe the strategies you employed at the state level could be effective nationally to address our current political divisions?

Governor Hogan: I've always prioritized what I felt was right over party orthodoxy, which I think has resonated with people more than anything else. This approach allowed me to achieve some unprecedented electoral successes; I ran 46 points ahead of Donald Trump in a state where he lost by 33 points. In 2018, I became only the second Republican to be reelected in Maryland's 248-year history, winning by a margin of 13 points. I left office with my job approval rating 25 points higher than when I started, culminating at 77%.

The truth is, many are hesitant to challenge the party line for fear of backlash — there's an overwhelming pressure to conform, to swear allegiance without wavering on any issue, or face political exile. But I chose a different path. I've always stood up to anyone — be it the current president, former president, the Democratic Party, or even my own party — whenever I believed their policies or actions didn't serve the best interests of Maryland or the nation.

This level of approval underscores that people deeply value integrity and bravery in their leaders, encouraging me to maintain my course. So, when people express their wish to speak out as I do, I often ask, "Why don't you?" It seems that the public truly appreciates it when their leaders are transparent and brave enough to do the right thing. It's about integrity and having the courage to stand firm in your convictions, even if it means standing alone. This has not only defined my tenure but also reinforced the belief that principled leadership can profoundly impact governance and public trust.

Do you believe the DNC has a moral obligation to ask Biden to step aside?

The decision ultimately rests with President Biden, his family, and the Democratic Party. As a Republican, my perspective may hold less weight, but I've voiced concerns for over a year about his capability for another campaign. He might not be the strongest nominee for his party given his current state.

If you were in his family, what advice would you offer?

Having dealt with similar issues when my own father aged, I understand the difficulty in facing the loss of capabilities. It's never easy to acknowledge that someone can no longer manage independently. My father's situation wasn't as pronounced as President Biden's seems to be, but aging challenges are universal. This isn't a critique of President Biden, but as the leader of the free world, the stakes are extremely high. The noticeable change in his demeanor from his vice-presidential days—when he was more energetic and engaging—raises concerns.

We might need you to step up as a Presidential candidate, Governor.

Yeah, many have urged me to consider that, but I've chosen to run for the United States Senate instead. I felt that running for President might inadvertently deepen national divisions, which isn't something I want to contribute to. Originally, I planned to return to the private sector to pursue my passions and spend quality time with my family—enjoying life and focusing on meaningful activities. However, my profound concern for our country compelled me to seek a Senate seat. My wife has been a significant influence; she often says, 'If you believe you can make a difference and you don't try, you'll never be happy.' That thought has stayed with me, driving my decisions, especially as I watch the unfolding national debates.

You've been quite open about your battle with cancer. How has this experience shaped your outlook on life and politics?

Absolutely, it has profoundly impacted me. After achieving the largest electoral upset in 2014 and assuming office, Baltimore experienced its worst violence in nearly half a century, just 89 days into my term. This occurred right after my first legislative session where we successfully rolled back many taxes.

That must have been an incredibly shocking period, especially with the subsequent diagnosis.

Indeed, Sender, it was. Just 60 days after dealing with the riots, I was diagnosed with life-threatening cancer. We had deployed 4,000 National Guard members and 1,000 police officers to quell the violence. This period of intense crisis management was immediately followed by my personal health crisis. Governing from a hospital bed and interacting with other patients during my chemotherapy treatment provided a stark perspective shift. It made me realize how insignificant political battles and material wealth truly are compared to life’s broader challenges. It instilled a deep sense of empathy in me and highlighted the importance of focusing on what truly matters—not just accumulating wealth or political victories.

These experiences reinforced my resolve to tackle genuine issues and taught me that life is too short not to stand up for what I believe in. Facing cancer head-on has imbued me with a kind of fearlessness, where typical threats or political pressures no longer faze me. If I can overcome cancer, I am confident in my ability to face political challenges with the same courage.

With the college campus protests this past year, it feels like we're at an inflection point where history is becoming cyclical again. If you were in office this past year, what would your response have been to these protests?

I would have tried to shut them down. While we must protect the rights of free speech and peaceful protests, what we faced was not that.

Immediately after the horrific attacks on October 7th, I saw reactions at Harvard that went beyond peaceful protests—there were celebrations of violent acts where people were harmed severely. This crossed the line beyond free speech, with threats and expressions of anti-Semitic hatred. Although I wasn’t in office, I took a firm stand: I resigned from two prestigious fellowships at Harvard and publicly criticized their leadership through op-eds in major newspapers.

This is part of a larger, ongoing battle against anti-Semitism, not just a transient issue. My first trip after my cancer treatment was to Israel, where visiting Yad Vashem was profoundly moving, underscoring my deep connection with Israel. Our relationship has strengthened over the years; we've set up sister city connections with the Negev region, engaged in joint academic initiatives with Israeli universities, and welcomed Elta, the company involved in designing the Iron Dome, to establish their U.S. headquarters in Maryland.

Moreover, I was the first governor in the U.S. to sign an executive order against the BDS movement, ensuring that no one could do business with Maryland if they supported BDS. This action was taken independently when my legislature hesitated, demonstrating my commitment to fighting anti-Semitism.

Our efforts extend beyond policies. We’ve invested in protecting synagogues, Jewish day schools, and community centers across Maryland. Every request from the Jewish community for safety enhancements has been met with support, underlining our stance that anti-Semitism has no place in our state. This isn’t just a recent endeavor—it's been a consistent stance since as far back as 2014.

Dovie Neuberger: We're running short on time, but before we wrap up, I'd like to get your thoughts on a topic that's likely on everyone's mind, especially with you being the former governor of Maryland and now running for Senate. Regarding personnel changes, what recommendations would you make for the Ravens to succeed this year? Are you still in touch with John Harbaugh?

You know, it's quite humorous. I mean, I have a great admiration for John Harbaugh. He's a good friend, and I attend training camp annually. During my tenure as governor, I enjoyed the privilege of watching games from a 50-yard line box at the Ravens' stadium. I'm a true Ravens fan. It might seem like you're taking a jab at the Ravens, but honestly, I believe they're on the cusp of greatness. They're almost there.

Sender Gross: Governor, it's commendable to see leaders like yourself not just enjoying sports but also leveraging their platforms to support major social initiatives.

Absolutely, and speaking of support, let me share a recent experience with Robert Kraft, the owner of the New England Patriots. I was just with him, discussing his philanthropic efforts through an organization he's heavily invested in—$200 million to be exact—to combat hate. This initiative is particularly focused on tackling anti-Semitism and other forms of hate. The Rails family, known for their philanthropy here, joined forces with Kraft by contributing significantly, prompting Kraft to match their contribution generously. While we were discussing these serious matters, Kraft couldn't resist showing off the Patriots' six Super Bowl trophies. He playfully ribbed me by asking, "How many of these do you have back in Baltimore?" Despite the friendly banter, it was a poignant reminder of the powerful impact of uniting sports with significant social causes. I left feeling inspired by the dedication to making a difference, not just on the field but in society at large. Rest assured, the Ravens are gearing up for a strong comeback this year.

Governor, given your extensive experience in finance and real estate, along with your impactful political career, what advice would you offer to our audience, especially those looking to venture into business?

It appears you're more intrigued by business ventures than political endeavors. I'm confident the business you're involved with will thrive, and I wholeheartedly wish you the best. My journey began straight out of college when I dived into real estate brokerage and development, eventually starting my own company in my 20s, which I continue to manage. I firmly believe in the value of public service; it shouldn't be left solely to career politicians. Personally, I've always been more aligned with the private sector, enjoying the process of building companies, fostering growth, and orchestrating deals. My business background proved invaluable in politics, where, unlike many who might prefer to engage in partisan bickering or social media disputes, I focused on crafting deals that led to mutual gains. This approach was particularly effective during negotiations with my Democratic legislature, allowing us to accomplish what others might have failed to achieve through mere confrontation. My advice? Concentrate on your business pursuits. While dabbling in politics can be enlightening, your real opportunity to prosper will likely be through your entrepreneurial endeavors.

To end off, and to add religion to this conversation, how do you think religion can stay relevant to our generation?

I think the Judeo-Christian ethic is critically important. Now we're seeing how important some of that is, particularly for your faith, with the crazy stuff that's happening in the world. And people like me need to continue to stand up for you. That's one thing about closing out. I may not be Jewish, but you won't find a stronger supporter of the Jewish faith and the State of Israel or our Jewish community. I'm proud to support these causes as a senator.