VIDEO: U.S. Senator Ben Cardin Kicks off 2012 Re-Election Bid // Web Ad Highlights Family's Immigrant Roots

U.S. Senator Ben Cardin kicked off his 2012 re-election bid with a rally yesterday at the Baltimore Museum of Industry. His announcement stated:

"It's been my honor to serve all the people of Maryland in the U.S. Senate. The last few years have been tough times and there is still much work to be done to get people back to work and to restore our growth economy. I want to continue the fight and help rebuild the American Dream," said Senator Cardin.

Mr. Cardin also released a biographical video to launch his campaign, and the well-done web ad delves into his family's history as immigrants in America. Watch the video below:




Notably, Mr. Cardin does not yet appear to have any serious opposition, as the GOP does not appear to have the stomach for another obvious loss in Maryland. 2010 GOP Senate nominee Eric Wargotz recently decided not to challenge Senator Cardin. The Washington Post reported:

“Unfortunately, support for the incumbent Senator (and the President) remains strong in Maryland, despite the national political environment,” Wargotz said. “In this political reality, we find ourselves in the position of being able to win the Republican nomination but falling short in the general election.”

Former Secret Service agent Daniel Bongino has been actively campaigning for the Republican nod for several months, and Del. Patrick McDonough (Baltimore County) is also considering a run.

Though he lost to Mikulski by 26 points, Wargotz had one asset for another race that Bongino does not — personal wealth. Wargotz raised $932,000 for his 2010 campaign, with more than two-thirds of that amount coming from his own wallet.

Maryland Juice is again reminded that GOP lawmaker Pat McDonough (aka "That Guy with the Speak English lawnsign") is considering a challenge against Mr. Cardin. I really hope that happens.