[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] Larry Hogan, the Maryland governor known as a 'rising star' of the U.S. Republican Party and the 'Korean son-in-law,' has hinted at his intention to run for president in 2024.
On the 13th (local time), Governor Hogan appeared on CNN and, when asked if he was considering running for president in 2024, said, "I will definitely take a closer look after January 2023," adding, "I am concerned about the direction of the party and the country. After finishing this work, I will make a decision around 2024."
This appears to be the first time Governor Hogan, who had not previously revealed his intentions regarding the next presidential election, has effectively indicated his intention to challenge for the presidency. On the 8th, he declared at a press conference that he would not run for the U.S. Senate, despite strong encouragement from the party.
The Republican Party has been making efforts to have Governor Hogan run for the Senate ahead of the midterm elections this November. After Chris Sununu, the New Hampshire governor whom the Republican leadership had been promoting for the Senate run, decided last November to seek re-election as governor, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell also tried to persuade Governor Hogan but failed.
Regarding his decision not to run for the Senate, Governor Hogan said, "I have been a manager all my life. As Maryland governor, I have more authority," adding, "I make decisions every day that affect people's lives, and I want to finish this work." He also said, "In Washington (Congress), there is a lot of division and dysfunction, and it seems like not much gets done," adding, "That is not the kind of work that suits me."
Governor Hogan continued, "I will serve as governor until January next year," and said, "I will do my best to be the best governor I can be." His term as a two-term governor ends in January next year.
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