FREDERICK COUNTY, MD - U.S. Senator Ben Cardin is hoping for another term in Congress, but his political experience goes well beyond that.

Cardin first cracked into politics in 1967 when he was elected to the Maryland House of Delegates.

"I'm proud that during very difficult times, I've been able to work across party lines and get things done," said Cardin (D) - Maryland.

Some of the things Cardin says he's proud to have gotten done include protecting the environment.

"I'm proud of my efforts as a leader in the U.S. Senate to preserve our precious waters, the Chesapeake Bay, and our efforts to make sure we leave the Chesapeake Bay better for future generations," Cardin said.

Cardin says another priority is creating jobs in Western Maryland.

"Working for the North South Highway in Western Maryland in the new transportation bill that allows us to move forward with that project will bring jobs to Western Maryland," Cardin said.

Cardin thinks one of his major accomplishments is the new control tower at Frederick Municipal Airport. He helped get $4.8 million in federal funds for the project.

Cardin believes another one of his accomplishments includes giving more dental benefits to kids. That's legislation he helped to introduce.

He knows what's most important to him if he's elected to another term in the U.S. Senate.

"The most important priority is to create more jobs and that's why we're working on manufacturing, we working on tourism, and the completion of the C&O Trail to make sure the funds are there," Cardin said.

Cardin says he enjoys visiting the mountains and people of Western Maryland, and it is those people who will help decide if his 45-year political career will continue.