Traveling across Maryland's 1st Congressional District, State's Attorney Frank Kratovil (D-Stevensville) listens as voters express their concerns on a daily basis along the campaign trail.

While residents may be weary and express skepticism on a variety of issues, Kratovil told PolitickerMD.com today that the sluggish economy carries the most weight on the minds of the voters he has talked to.

"People are very concerned," Kratovil said. "They see soaring gas prices and health care costs and are afraid they won't be able to afford to pay for their children's education."

Seeking to differentiate himself from his opponent, state Sen. Andy Harris (R-Cockeysville), Kratovil said, "The message (to the voters) is if you agree that the policies we currently have are effective and have benefited your lives then you should vote for (Harris). If you think we need to change those policies then you should vote for me."

Asked to elaborate, Kratovil claimed Harris "agrees almost entirely" with the policies of the Bush administration.

"(Harris) thinks tax cuts for the super-wealthy are good. He is in favor of tax cuts for corporations and big business."

"I think we need to give tax cuts to the middle class."

The Harris campaign has largely based their effort on a theme of "lower taxes and smaller government."

Polling data collected throughout the presidential primaries reveals that a majority of Americans consider the economy the most important issue facing the nation.

Kratovil said he expected that trend to continue throughout the year, saying he has heard voters describe to him that they are most concerned about their children.

"Families are really concerned that for the first time their children will not have the same opportunities that they did," Kratovil said.

Expect the economic debate to continue as the summer heats up and gas prices rise.