Kratovil Fights 1st District's Conservative Tide

Freshman Democrat considered underdog in new challenge by Harris

CHESTER

Frank Kratovil Jr. made history as the first Democrat elected to Congress from Maryland's easternmost district since the 1980s. Now, he's struggling against a reverse tide, one that sweeps out congressmen from the president's party in the middle of a new administration.

The freshman lawmaker is probably best known for being hanged in effigy by a disgruntled Eastern Shore constituent. The incident underscored the tough challenge Kratovil faces every day.

He is caught between his conservative district and Democratic leaders who'd like to have his support for their ambitious national agenda. Heading into the final showdown over health care legislation, local voters say they'll be watching closely.

Mike O'Connor, a federal employee from Grasonville, wants Kratovil to go "for the people, not for the Democratic Party" on health care overhaul. "If he were to vote against it, he would probably get my vote for re-election," says the 38-year-old Republican.

Dan Burnside, 35, also of Grasonville, crossed party lines to vote for Kratovil and hopes the congressman doesn't "lose himself" just because "some lady," referring to Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, "tries to force your hand."

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