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Former Gov. Bob Ehrlich Jr. says he will announce his election plans in March — prolonging suspense that has been building for months over a possible gubernatorial bid.

Ehrlich made the comments before speaking in support of two Washington County candidates for the Maryland General Assembly during a joint fundraiser Monday in Hagerstown.

Washington County — a red county in a blue state — voted overwhelmingly for Ehrlich in 2006, supporting him over Gov. Martin O'Malley by about a 2-1 margin.

Ehrlich said he remains popular there.

Monday's fundraiser supported Republicans Neil Parrott and Cort Meinelschmidt — both seeking their first elected office.

Parrott is running for delegate for the District 2B seat currently held by Del. Christopher B. Shank, the House Minority Whip.

Shank has announced that he will run against Sen. Donald F. Munson of Hagerstown in the Republican primary later this year.

Meinelschmidt is hoping to unseat Del. John P. Donoghue of Hagerstown.

Ehrlich said he was throwing his support behind the two newcomers because he believes in what they stand for, calling them the future of Maryland politics.

"I don't do this for everyone," Ehrlich said, "particularly non-incumbents."