When it comes to backing up President Clinton on his gutsy decision to continue normal trading relations with China, the Maryland delegation in Congress provides an Alice in Wonderland glimpse of party loyalty. On a roll-call vote last week, Democrats Benjamin Cardin, Steny Hoyer, Kweisi Mfume and Albert Wynn voted against the Democrat in the White House. Republicans Roscoe Bartlett, Wayne Gilchrest and Constance Morella gave Mr. Clinton their support.

This reversal of partisan behavior probably would not have been complete had Republican Helen Bentley, a stalwart protectionist, voted. But she was off running for governor of Maryland.