Howard to hold event with Bob Ehrlich, but no endorsement

By Ryan Miner 

Republican congressional hopeful Frank Howard is scheduled to hold a book signing event with former Maryland Governor Robert Ehrlich on Monday, April 18, in Kensington, Maryland.

Ehrlich has been travelling to different Republican groups, promoting his new book, “Turning Point, Picking Up the Pieces after Eight Years of Failed Progressive Policies.”

In March, Ehrlich held a book signing event in Downtown Salisbury, hosted by The Wicomico County Republican Club and Dr. Carolyn Elmore.

Ticket prices for Ehrlich’s upcoming event in Kensington are as follows:
– $75/person
– $225 VIP ticket (eight remaining, according to Howard’s website)
– $750 Executive package, includes ten tickets (two remaining, according to Howard’s website)
– $1000 Host committee (one remaining, according to Howard’s website)

During the Poolesville congressional debate and in an advertisement within the Herald-Mail’s Voter Guide, Howard is touting a quote given by Ehrlich: “Keep your eye on Frank Howard in this closely watched congressional race.”

Some confusion has arisen over whether Ehrlich has officially endorsed Howard’s congressional candidacy. Ehrlich, however, did NOT endorse Frank Howard in the CD-6 Republican primary.

Last evening I emailed Jim Pettit, Mr. Howard’s communications director, for clarification on whether Gov. Ehrlich had officially endorsed Frank Howard.

Again and for the record, Gov. Ehrlich did NOT endorse Frank Howard.

Below is my email exchange with Mr. Pettit confirming that no endorsement was given to Howard by Ehrlich.

Me:

Hi, Jim – 

There seems to be some confusion about Frank’s touting of Bob Ehrlich on the campaign trail.

 Did Gov. Ehrlich endorse Frank’s candidacy for Congress? Is he officially supporting Frank over the other candidates in the CD-6 Republican primary? 

Thanks, 

Ryan R. Miner 

Here is Mr. Pettit’s response in full:

Ryan,

There is no confusion on our end.  Gov. Ehrlich told our campaign there are no plans to officially endorse anyone in the primary.  His quote (in the Herald-Mail ad) speaks for itself. 

Our newsletter will be going out soon.  It embodies our messaging re: Gov. Ehrlich.

Jim Pettit

Howard’s event next Monday with Ehrlich will last from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

 ***UPDATE***

Shortly after this article was published, Frank Howard released the post below via his campaign Facebook page: