1986 United States Senate election in Maryland

Charles Mathias Jr. Republican Barbara Mikulski Democratic The 1986 United States Senate election in Maryland was held on November 4, 1986.

Incumbent Republican Senator Charles Mathias Jr. decided to retire instead of seeking a fourth term.

Democratic U.S. Representative Barbara Mikulski defeated Reagan Administration official Linda Chavez for the open seat.

At the time of this announcement, it was expected that then-Governor Harry Hughes would run for the seat being vacated by retiring Senator Mathias.

[citation needed] Chavez was accused of making Mikulski's sexual orientation a central issue of the political campaign.

Democratic primary results by county:
Map legend
  • Mikulski—30–40%
  • Mikulski—40–50%
  • Mikulski—50–60%
  • Mikulski—60–70%
  • Barnes—30–40%
  • Barnes—40–50%
  • Barnes—70-80%
  • Hughes—30–40%
Republican primary results by county:
Map legend
  • Chavez—70–80%
  • Chavez—80–90%
  • Chavez—>90%