Over the course of the next week, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most hotly contested state legislative races.

Today we’ll focus in on the Senate race in District 42 in Baltimore County. Incumbent Democratic Senator James Brochin faces a tough challenge from Republican Doug Riley. The Baltimore Sun took a closer look at this race earlier this week. View the complete story here.

James Brochin (D)
Brochin is a 42-year-old insurance broker from Towson, who was elected to the State Senate in 2002. In his response to the Maryland Chamber’s candidate questionnaire, he said the three key issues of his campaign are:

1. Maintaining the current sales and income tax rates
2. Continuing to support embryonic stem cell research.
3. Continuing to protect the environment.

To learn more about Brochin, click the links below:

• Maryland Chamber Questionnaire
• How did Brochin Vote on the Maryland Chamber’s Priority Bills
• Campaign Website
• Comcast Candidates on Demand Interview

Doug Riley (R)
Riley is a 53-year-old lawyer from Towson. He served eight years on the Baltimore County Council and was the Republican nominee for County Executive in 2002. In his response to the Maryland Chamber’s candidate questionnaire, he said the three key issues of his campaign are:

1. Providing quality schools and safe streets
2. Ameliorating traffic congestion
3. Ensuring that redevelopment respects neighborhood character and preserves amenities such as open space.

To learn more about Riley, click the links below:

• Maryland Chamber Questionnaire
• Campaign Site
• Comcast Candidates on Demand Interview