Maryland Politics -- The Tide Is Turning

I've been away for several days, so I missed this one on the first go-around.

According to the Washington Times Michael Steels has begun to make major inroads into Maryland's black community and has picked up some important endorsements, including this:

The Maryland Democratic Party's traditional support among blacks appears to be slipping, now that hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons -- who has helped register thousands of Democratic voters -- has endorsed Republican Michael S. Steele for the U.S. Senate.
...

"Russell Simmons is one of the leading progressive voices in America," said Donna Brazile, who managed Al Gore's 2000 presidential campaign.

"This is a major endorsement for Lieutenant Governor Steele that will help him attract young people, as well as black voters," Ms. Brazile said. "Once again, this should serve as a wake-up call to Democrats not to take their most loyal constituents and voters for granted."
...
Mr. Simmons "definitely represents the younger generation. ... He's a pioneer, and hip-hop has become one thing that defines black youths in this country," said Tyrell Ruff, a 19-year old Baltimore native.
...
Cathy Hughes, founder and chairman of Radio One, the seventh-largest national radio conglomerate and the largest aimed at black audiences, also is supporting Mr. Steele and will attend tonight's event.

"That's huge," said Eric Nelson, a 34-year old rapper and single father from Baltimore. "The tide is shifting."

Read the whole thing here.

UPDATE:

Simmons explains his endorsement here. It's a bit strange -- apparently his yoga guru was an important influence on his thinking.