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Michael D. Herman, chief of staff to Prince George's County Executive Jack B. Johnson (D), is considering challenging Sen. Paul G. Pinsky for his District 22 seat in 2010.

A former mayor of Riverdale Park, Herman (D) said Thursday he has been encouraged to challenge Pinsky (D-Dist. 22) of University Park by business and nonprofit executives and by individuals who believe Pinsky has focused on statewide issues rather than bringing jobs and resources to the district's communities.

"A lot of people say ‘I know Paul, I like Paul, but if you run, I'd support you in a heartbeat,'" said Herman, who declined to name the people. "I'm not sure they are ready to be outted yet."

Herman, who has also acted as the county's lead lobbyist, has worked for Johnson since 1995, including as a prosecutor when Johnson was the county's State's Attorney.

Johnson's second term as county executive ends in 2010 and term limits prevent him from running for a third.

Pinsky, a state legislator since 1987 and senator since 1994, is a former teacher and teacher's union organizer.