Robert Ehrlich wins GOP nod in Maryland, setting up rematch against Gov. Martin O’Malley

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Ehrlich wins GOP nod to face Md. Gov. O’Malley

ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Former Gov. Robert Ehrlich has defeated investor Brian Murphy in the Republican primary for Maryland governor.

Ehrlich’s victory Tuesday sets up a rematch in November against Democratic incumbent Gov. Martin O’Malley, who easily won his primary race against two long-shot candidates.

Murphy, a 33-year-old political novice, was largely unknown until former vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin endorsed him last month. Murphy ran to the right of Ehrlich, who is a moderate Republican.

Ehrlich ran on a pro-business and tax-cutting platform. The former governor was defeated by O’Malley when he ran for re-election in 2006.

O’Malley has been touting record investments in education despite tough economic times during his tenure.