Kratovil bolsters independent reputation

Blue Dog Democrat's quest for re-election may draw national attention

By GRAHAM MOOMAW, Capital News Service

Published 02/28/10

WASHINGTON - Rep. Frank Kratovil has broken ranks with the Democratic Party on key legislation throughout his first term, but whether that independence is enough to win re-election in Maryland's contentious 1st District is the question as the 2010 election cycle ramps up.

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Kratovil, D-Queen Anne's, has sided with Republicans against the 2010 budget, health care reform and a recent federal debt limit hike, as well as a new jobs bill. On each vote, Kratovil cited his dedication to a balanced budget as the main reason for his opposition.

Across the country, moderate Democrats are trying to carefully toe the line between...

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Independent - 2010-03-02 11:36:27

Why do Republicans now feel the need to call themselves independents. Do people like Nathan really think they're fooling anyone when they claim to be "independent" and then fully spout off the Republican talking points. If you want to hate everything democratic and spout regirgutate Glenn Beck that's fine but don't do it under the guise of independent thinking. You're not fooling anyone.

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Eric Johnson - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Neutral

Agreed. - 2010-03-01 11:03:06

I agree that Pelosi is the main reason to vote Republican. This woman is a true horror to our Constitution.

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Brian Armstrong - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Good

Kratovil - 2010-02-28 12:41:28

If I only read the Capital, Id have to ask, Who is Frank Kratovil? For such a contentious District, the Capitals coverage has been slim. Hiding Mr. Kratovil may back-fire on you, though. While he seems a nice enough guy and Andy Harris doesnt exactly thrill me, three things will make this independent vote for the Republican.

First, Kratovils record; voting for the $787 billion stimulus bill, cap-and-trade climate legislation, and the Lily Ledbetter special-interest bill.

Second, he still has some heavy liberal instincts concerning the role of the Federal government in the economy, education and other areas where it has clearly failed.

But for me, the number one reason to vote Republican is to get rid of Pelosi and her minions.

Perhaps Frank should go to the NRCC and offer to run as a Republican; that would make the race interesting!

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Nathan Durhing - Arnold, MD - Karma: Neutral