Maryland Primary Results Shape Key U.S. Senate Contest and Decide Other Races

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
15/05/2024 23h15

In the recent Maryland primary elections, several significant outcomes have emerged, setting the stage for an important U.S. Senate contest in November and solidifying results in other races, particularly in Baltimore City, where Democrats greatly outnumber Republicans.

One notable aspect of the primary was the Democratic Senate race, which saw Angela Alsobrooks emerge as the winner. During an election night watch party, Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller and other supporters of Alsobrooks made references to rival candidate David Trone, highlighting his substantial expenditure of over $60 million in an attempt to secure the nomination. Some voters expressed potential backlash to Trone's excessive television and radio ads, as well as mailers, suggesting a preference for quality over quantity. Angela Alsobrooks, the Prince George's County executive, will now face Republican former Gov. Larry Hogan in the November election.

As for the Baltimore mayoral race, incumbent Mayor Brandon Scott declared victory after establishing a significant lead over challenger Sheila Dixon. Despite a surprise endorsement from long-shot candidate Thiru Vignarajah, it became clear that Vignarajah's small but loyal following was not enough to sway the outcome in Dixon's favor. Mayor Scott expressed confidence in securing a second term, with a comfortable lead that could not be closed by outstanding mail-in votes.

In other races, State Sen. Sarah Elfreth emerged as the victor in a highly competitive 22-way Democratic contest, while April McClain Delaney, a former official in President Joe Biden's administration, secured the nomination for an open congressional seat. Elfreth aims to succeed U.S. Rep. John Sarbanes in the 3rd Congressional District, while Delaney will compete for the seat in the 6th District previously held by David Trone. Notably, Elfreth emphasized the need for female representation in Maryland's federal delegation, which has been lacking since the retirement of U.S. Sen. Barbara Mikulski in 2017.

For Baltimore City Council president, Zeke Cohen emerged as the Democratic nominee, securing 50% of the vote in a three-way race. Cohen celebrated his victory over former City Councilwoman Shannon Sneed and incumbent City Council President Nick Mosby at an election night watch party. Mosby, whose political empire had already begun to crumble following his association with former Baltimore City State's Attorney Marilyn Mosby, conceded the race on Wednesday morning.

In the race to succeed outgoing U.S. Rep. C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger, Johnny Olszewski Jr., a two-term Baltimore County executive, appears to have a strong advantage. Olszewski laid the groundwork for his campaign well before Ruppersberger announced his decision not to seek re-election. With endorsements from influential figures such as Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin, Olszewski is poised for success in November.

The Maryland primary elections have shaped a significant U.S. Senate contest for November, established the winners in various races, and underscored the desire for diverse and representative leadership in the state.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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