Gov. Larry Hogan opened Wednesday's Board of Public Works meeting in somber tones laced with self-praise that built to a stunning announcement.
"Over the past few months, my administration has received a lot of recognition for our bipartisan approach to governance," Hogan said. "It seems to me that approach is something that is desperately lacking in Washington, D.C.
"So after much encouragement and reflection, I've come to the decision today to announce my candidacy for the president of the United States."
Laughter erupted immediately, and grew as Hogan reminded it everyone it's April Fools' Day. But, he added, it shouldn't be that unbelievable. Maryland's two previous governors - Robert L. Ehrlich and Martin O'Martin - are both weighing presidential bids, after all.