Law Professor vs. Lawmaker?

By Tim Craig
Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, December 1, 2005; GZ02

"I think we need progressive leaders who will defend the wonderful diversity of our communities," said Raskin, who lives in Takoma Park.

Raskin, 42, is director of American University Washington College of Law's Program on Law and Government. A former editor of the Harvard Law Review, Raskin also represents tenants fighting condominium conversions.

For the past eight years, he's also served as State's Attorney Douglas F. Gansler's campaign manager.

If he runs, Raskin will be the first serious challenger Ruben has faced in years. She was first elected to the Senate in 1986. Before that, Ruben was a delegate representing District 20, which includes the Takoma Park area and part of Silver Spring.

Raskin said he "respects" Ruben but thinks it's time for a change.

Ruben said she's ready for the challenge.

"It's a democratic state. Democracy is in full force, and if he wants to run, he can run," Ruben said. "I am running on my record of 31 years."