Larry Hogan Then and Now

Larry Hogan Then

Larry Hogan, born on May 25, 1956, in Washington, D.C., has a background that reflects a blend of personal and political influences. 

Growing up in Landover, Maryland, he attended Saint Ambrose Catholic School and later DeMatha Catholic High School, institutions that helped shape his early education and values. 

After his parents divorced in 1972, Hogan relocated to Florida with his mother, where he graduated from Father Lopez Catholic High School in 1974. 

This transition marked a significant change in his life, setting the stage for his future endeavors in public service and politics.

Hogan’s political lineage is notable; he is the son of Lawrence Hogan Sr., who served as a U.S. Representative for Maryland’s 5th congressional district and later as Prince George’s County executive. 

His father’s tenure was marked by significant political moments, including being the first Republican member of the U.S. House Judiciary Committee to advocate for Richard Nixon’s impeachment. 

This family background provided Hogan with early exposure to the intricacies of political life and public service. 

Additionally, both of Hogan’s parents were of Irish descent, which has contributed to his identity and connection to the values of hard work and community service often associated with Irish-American heritage.

Hogan’s academic pursuits took him to Florida State University from 1974 to 1978, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in government and political science. 

This educational foundation solidified his interest in politics and governance, equipping him with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in public service. 

Hogan’s journey from his formative years through his education laid the groundwork for his eventual rise as a prominent political figure, including his role as the Governor of Maryland.

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Larry Hogan’s Political Career

Larry Hogan’s political career is marked by a series of strategic moves and significant moments that showcase his evolution from a politically inclined youth to a prominent figure in Maryland politics. 

Growing up as the son of Lawrence Hogan Sr., a former U.S. Representative, Hogan was immersed in the world of politics from a young age. 

His early experiences included working on political campaigns and citizen referendums, which provided him with a foundational understanding of political processes. 

After graduating from Florida State University, Hogan’s career in politics began to take shape, starting with a position in the Florida legislature and then moving to Capitol Hill.

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Hogan’s first run for office came in 1981 when he sought to fill a vacancy in Maryland’s 5th congressional district. 

Although he finished second in a crowded Republican primary, this early attempt laid the groundwork for his future political ambitions. 

In 1985, he established Hogan Companies, which allowed him to spend the next 18 years in the private sector before returning to politics. 

His foray back into the political arena came in 1992 when he challenged Democratic incumbent Steny Hoyer for a congressional seat, running a notably close race despite being vastly outspent.

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After taking a hiatus from politics to focus on his business, Hogan returned to public service in 2003, serving as Maryland’s Secretary of Appointments under Governor Bob Ehrlich. 

In this role, he was responsible for appointing thousands of individuals to various positions within the Maryland government. 

His political influence continued to grow, leading to the establishment of Change Maryland in 2011, an anti-tax advocacy organization that helped propel his successful gubernatorial campaign in 2014. 

Running as a moderate Republican, Hogan defeated Democrat Anthony Brown and subsequently secured reelection in 2018, marking a significant achievement as Maryland’s first two-term Republican governor since the 1960s.

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During his tenure as governor, Hogan was often characterized as a pragmatic leader, navigating a legislature dominated by Democrats. 

His approach to governance emphasized bipartisanship, which earned him a reputation for being a centrist within a polarized political landscape. 

Despite his popularity—evidenced by high approval ratings—his tenure was not without controversy, particularly regarding ethical concerns related to his real estate business and potential conflicts of interest. 

Hogan faced scrutiny for awarding state contracts that benefited his firm, leading to calls for enhanced transparency and ethical regulations.

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After leaving office in 2022, Hogan was viewed as a potential candidate for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024 but ultimately opted not to run. 

Instead, he redirected his political ambitions toward the U.S. Senate, filing to campaign for the seat held by retiring Democratic Senator Ben Cardin. 

Throughout his career, Hogan has demonstrated a commitment to public service and an ability to navigate the complexities of Maryland politics, positioning himself as a prominent voice within the Republican Party and maintaining a significant influence on the state’s political landscape.

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Larry Hogan’s Wife and Children

Larry Hogan’s personal life, particularly his marriage to Yumi Hogan, has been a notable aspect of his public persona throughout his political career. 

Yumi, a U.S. citizen of Korean descent, is an accomplished artist and serves as an adjunct instructor at the Maryland Institute College of Art. 

The couple’s relationship began in 2001, and they married in 2004, forming a partnership that has been characterized by mutual support and shared values. 

As Roman Catholics, the Hogans have often expressed their commitment to faith and family, which has influenced their lives both personally and professionally.

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In addition to their life together, Larry Hogan is the stepfather to Yumi’s three adult daughters from her previous marriage: Kim Velez, Jaymi Sterling, and Julie Kim. 

This blended family dynamic reflects Hogan’s role not just as a political leader but also as a family man, contributing to his image as a relatable figure. 

Yumi has also been active in her own right, often participating in public events alongside her husband and engaging in philanthropic efforts, which underscores the couple’s dedication to their community. 

Together, they have navigated the challenges and responsibilities of public life while maintaining a strong family foundation.

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Larry Hogan Now

Larry Hogan, born on May 25, 1956, is an influential American politician and businessman who made a significant mark during his tenure as the 62nd governor of Maryland from 2015 to 2023. 

At 68 years old, he is recognized as a member of the Republican Party and comes from a politically active family; his father, Lawrence Hogan Sr., served three terms as a U.S. representative. 

Hogan’s leadership was characterized by a pragmatic approach to governance, which garnered him a reputation as a moderate Republican willing to work across party lines. 

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His role as chair of the bipartisan National Governors Association from 2019 to 2020 further solidified his status as a prominent figure in state leadership, where he advocated for collaborative solutions to national issues.

Following his gubernatorial term, Hogan remained active in the political landscape, and in 2024, he successfully won the Republican primary election on May 14. 

This victory sets the stage for a competitive general election against Angela Alsobrooks, the Prince George’s County Executive. 

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Hogan’s campaign is expected to draw on his previous gubernatorial experiences, emphasizing his record of fiscal responsibility, economic development, and efforts to engage with constituents. 

His political journey continues to evolve as he seeks to maintain his influence in Maryland politics while appealing to a diverse electorate. 

With a history of resilience and adaptability, Hogan’s candidacy in the upcoming general election marks another chapter in his ongoing commitment to public service and governance.

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