Owens considering a run for seat in Congress

With less than six months left until the filing deadline, County Executive Janet S. Owens said yesterday that a fund-raising push over the next 90 days will be a crucial test of whether she's a viable candidate for Congress.

Ms. Owens is considering joining the crowded field of Democrats running for the 3rd District seat being vacated by Rep. Ben Cardin, and might form an exploratory committee.

But money will be an important issue. While she has about $230,000 on hand raised while a county official or candidate, only about $8,000 can be used for a congressional bid under federal campaign laws.

Candidates already in the...