O’Malley boosters say 2016 bid increasingly likely

[WestVirginiaRebel]

Washington Post:

Martin O’Malley's leading supporters left an afternoon gathering in Baltimore on Monday more convinced than ever that he will move forward with a 2016 presidential bid, several participants in the event said.

 

The former Maryland governor, who’s said he will probably make a decision by May, huddled with more than 150 donors and other boosters at the Baltimore Hilton for what was billed as an “issues conference.” The event was closed to the press and included discussions about foreign policy, health care and education.

 

Though O’Malley said nothing explicit about his plans, those in attendance said his upbeat nature and assessments offered by top political aides gave them the distinct impression that he is willing to challenge Hillary Rodham Clinton for the Democratic nomination, however long the odds.

 

“I think he’s energized by the reception he got this past weekend in Iowa,” said Rob Werner, a supporter from New Hampshire who came down for the gathering Monday. “I think he’s poised to do it, to get in the race. He certainly seems to be heading in that direction.”

 

Senior members of O’Malley’s political team made presentations, participants said, and a speech by O’Malley echoed the populist addresses he gave in Iowa, the nation’s first presidential caucus state. O’Malley aides said the former governor plans to give several policy speeches in coming months to flesh out his agenda.

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A party turns its lonely eyes to...?