GOP seems to push for Mfume (D) in Maryland Senate race

"Based on statements similar to Steele's from other Republican party leaders, it appears that if the state GOP had its way, Steele would face off against Mfume in November - not U.S. Rep. Benjamin L. Cardin, a 10-term congressman from the Baltimore area who has broad support from state party leaders."

"There are several reasons why: Mfume has less money than Cardin, and a recent Washington Post poll shows Steele running better against Mfume than against Cardin in a general election match-up. White voters are more likely to support Steele than Mfume, polls indicate."

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/bal-md.mfume09jul09,0,1622302.story?coll=bal-local-headlines

I wonder if this potential year old scandal has something to do with the GOP's desire to have a Steele (R) vs. Mfume (D) race.

"Yet since what was described by the NAACP as an amicable departure driven solely by Mfume, some within the organization say a significant detail has been kept secret: Mfume was fired."

"Others said allegations that Mfume hired and promoted women with whom he had personal relationships created a rift among staff and board members."

You may have to log in for this, but it is easy and I haven't gotten any spam from doing it.
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/bal-te.md.mfume29apr29,1,139236.story?ctrack=1&cset=true

and the major reasons were pointed out very clearly in the article you cite. Money very clearly being one of major factors. The purported "scandal" you refer to seemed more like an afterthought in the article, though I certainly would expect these allegations will be used against Mfume. "Some say" and "Others say" doesn't exactly equate to reliable sources. The allegations are denied by all principals, so while it may be used, I don't see it carrying much water.

The GOP, like many in the Md. Democratic party are understimating Mfume's abilities. Look how far he has gotten with so little money and backing. He has gotten this far with shoe leather and hard work and going out to the people of Maryland personally. I will be supporting him in the primary, even if I must step around the trash some Democrats and the many Republicans may toss in my path.

I think he is the best choice, not just for the State of Maryland but the Maryland Democratic Party as well.

I'm supporting Mfume. I think he's the very best guy for Maryland, for the Senate, and, indeed, for the national party.

The fact that he's polling quite well given the financial deficit and the weight of the party behind Cardin. I actually think he can do it, albeit in a tighter race against Steele than Cardin might have.