Welcome to Maryland Chatters, the new podcast from the nonprofit, nonpartisan journalists at Maryland Matters. 

Our first episode comes just before Election Day 2020 ― an election like no other. 

Voters are casting their ballots ― by mail and by dropbox ― like never before. Marylanders are turning out at early voting centers like never before. 

And, for some high-profile Republicans, they’re navigating an election season like never before. 

This week, Maryland Chatters caught up with Michael Steele, former Maryland lieutenant governor and Republican National Committee chairman, who recently announced he was crossing party lines to endorse Joe Biden for president. 

In an interview with Maryland Matters’ Bruce DePuyt, Steele explains his choice ― and the decision to go so public with his thoughts. He also reflects on his barrier-breaking election back in 2002 and his future political ambitions. 

We also hear from Patrick “PJ” Hogan, the Annapolis lobbyist and Democratic vice chair of the Maryland State Board of Elections. Reporter Bennett Leckrone talked to Hogan about the start of early voting in the state, his political transition from Republican state senator to Democratic state senator, and even the reason he’ll never forget his wedding anniversary.

Each episode of Maryland Chatters will also include political analysis by Maryland Matters Editor Josh Kurtz. This week, he talks with host Danielle E. Gaines about Gov. Larry Hogan’s popularity in a new poll, as well as some post-election predictions.

Maryland Chatters with Michael Steele, PJ Hogan

Maryland Chatters is the new podcast from the nonprofit, nonpartisan journalists at Maryland Matters.