Maryland’s Democratic Senate primary is set to test the power of self-funding, with Rep. David Trone, who has loaned his campaign over $61 million, facing off against Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks. The outcome of this race is crucial for the Democratic Party, as it will determine the Democratic candidate in the general election against popular former Gov. Larry Hogan, who is favored to win the Republican Senate nod. With the Senate majority at stake this fall, the results of this primary will have significant implications for the balance of power in the Senate.
Trone has been emphasizing his ability to defeat Hogan, highlighting the GOP threat in his campaign ads. His substantial self-funding has allowed him to dominate the airwaves and make a strong case for his electability. Alsobrooks, on the other hand, is focusing on her record in Prince George’s County and her stance on protecting abortion rights. Democrats are using the abortion issue to warn voters about the potential consequences of sending Hogan to Washington and bolstering the GOP’s chances of controlling the Senate.
Alsobrooks is positioning herself as a strong messenger on abortion rights and has received support from EMILY’s List’s super PAC to amplify that message. Her status as a Black woman could make her the third Black woman elected to the Senate and the first from Maryland, adding a unique electability argument to her campaign. While she acknowledges the significance of her identity, she stresses that her qualifications and values are the main reasons why voters should support her.
Trone’s record-breaking self-funding and significant financial advantage have made this race one of the most expensive Senate primaries. His ability to spend on ads and operational advantages have given him an edge in reaching and turning out voters. However, his massive spending has also alienated some voters who view his self-funding as a hindrance to connecting with ordinary citizens. Alsobrooks, despite being outspent, has garnered early endorsements and support from other elected officials to bolster her campaign.
Both candidates have relied on surrogates and endorsements to build support. While Alsobrooks has secured the endorsement of The Washington Post’s editorial board, Trone has received backing from House Democratic leadership and local elected officials. The race has become increasingly contentious, with race and gender dynamics coming into play. Trone’s attack ads against Alsobrooks, particularly comments made about her needing “training wheels” in the Senate, have been criticized for their tone and implications of misogyny and racism.
Despite the heated competition, Maryland Democrats are expected to unite against Hogan in the general election, regardless of the primary outcome. The race has highlighted the diverse voices and issues within the Democratic Party, and the results will have far-reaching implications for Maryland’s political landscape. Ultimately, the primary will determine who will face off against Hogan in a competitive fall campaign to succeed Sen. Ben Cardin and potentially shift the balance of power in the Senate.
