As a prominent Republican in the Democrat-controlled House of Delegates for much of the past decade, Howard County Del. Robert H. Kittleman has toiled with honor if not always with success. But now that the GOP is set to have a greater say in Annapolis matters, Mr. Kittleman should become a key player in Maryland's brave new world of two-party politics -- possibly as House minority leader.
Democrats still dominate the General Assembly, though to a considerably lesser degree after the voting of Nov. 8. Whereas roughly one in six legislators elected in 1990 was a Republican, about one in three chosen last month belongs to the GOP. Many of the newer delegates were drilled in how to run a campaign by Bob Kittleman, for which they owe him allegiance. They should be loyal to him also for his clear, persistent enunciation of a conservative philosophy throughout his three terms, for holding up the banner while surrounded by the enemy and waiting for reinforcements to arrive.
His service to the GOP -- including his work as minority whip during the past two terms -- has helped make Mr. Kittleman the favorite to succeed Ellen Sauerbrey as the leader of the House Republicans. The members will vote on the position Tuesday. His main competition figures to come from Garrett County Del. George C. Edwards, who is said to be backed by House Speaker Casper R. Taylor Jr. No doubt the speaker envisions the low-key Mr. Edwards, a fellow Western Marylander with a similar outlook, as a minority chief who would be less threatening than Mr. Kittleman, a strong-willed ideologue. Moreover, as the top Republican, the Howard delegate would have more of a bully pulpit to continue his criticism of the rigid control of the House by Mr. Taylor and other powerful Democrats.
Even if he does not become minority leader, Mr. Kittleman will have his hands full trying to keep peace within Howard County's delegation. In contrast to the statewide pattern, the county House delegation has gone from an overwhelming GOP majority to a 50-50 split between the two parties. This could lead to increased partisan wrangling among the members. Indeed, Howard Democrats are still stewing over what they felt were excessively nasty campaign tactics by the Republicans. It should prove an inordinately busy period for Mr. Kittleman, whose time may finally be at hand.