No sense candy coating it. November 5, 2002 is a day that will live in infamy. Those of us who care about America feel devastated, with good reason. There are some reasons for hope. One of them is Chris Van Hollen, the new member of Congress from Maryland.

I met Congressman Van Hollen recently while working for his campaign in a modest capacity. His energy and enthusiasm, intelligence and integrity radiate. As I told people then:

"I worked with the congressional candidate here, Chris Van Hollen, handing out literature (that's what they call it, though it's hardly Tolstoy) at the subway stop. It's the first time I'd met him, and he seems very smart, friendly and modest. Even so, I think he'll win." He did.

This is Chris' thank you note to his campaign workers:

Last night was an incredible night for all of us, and I want to thank you for your hard work, your generosity, and your trust. We fought a good fight based on the issues, and although the Democrats may have suffered losses nationwide, the people of Maryland’s 8th made their priorities clear. I pledge to do my best in office and to fight the fights that we care about. Congresswoman Morella has always represented our district's interests well, but I hope to raise the bar even further. Thank you again for your support and dedication!

Sincerely,

Chris Van Hollen

This was my reply:

We did it! I was happy to meet Chris' daughter Anna and his in-laws. It was a wonderful night. You mapped a great strategy, and Chris ran a great campaign. Now, he is going to have to hit the ground running, and take on big responsibilities from the first.

I will help any way I can.

Mike Hersh

Although Democrats outnumber Republicans in Maryland's 8th District, incumbent Connie Morella rode near-100% name recognition and highly-prized endorsements to eight wins in a row. Van Hollen's victory over Morella -- a highly skilled campaigner -- was far from assured. This even before the Republican National Committee dropped $millions to fund negative ads and attack mail against him.

Through it all, Van Hollen stayed on message, refused to succumb to taunts, and conducted himself with a quality almost extinct in politics: class. His calm, intent manner set the tone for his highly professional campaign. His staffers were smart and professional. His volunteers worked harder. His ads, website and printed material showcased his strengths.

Remember the name. As a long-shot who won against the tide, Congressman Chris Van Hollen is one to watch. Write this down. Van Hollen's success offers a blueprint for Democratic success, and provides us with a source of hope.

© Copyright 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 by MikeHersh.com and identified authors. MikeHersh.com invites you to broadcast any material at this site, provided you identify the source as MikeHersh.com. All print, Internet, email and other summaries, excerpts or other written reproductions must include this blurb and a link to http://www.MikeHersh.com.