1986 United States Senate election in Maryland

1986 United States Senate election in Maryland

← 1980 November 4, 1986 1992 →
 
Nominee Barbara Mikulski Linda Chavez
Party Democratic Republican
Popular vote 675,225 437,411
Percentage 60.69% 39.31%

County results
Mikulski:      50–60%      60–70%      80–90%
Chavez:      50–60%      60–70%

U.S. senator before election

Charles Mathias Jr.
Republican

Elected U.S. Senator

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. Mikulski's swearing-in marked the first time since 1969 where Democrats held both Senate seats from Maryland.