Angela Alsobrooks, the Prince George’s County executive, emerged victorious in the Democratic primary for Maryland’s Senate seat, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown with popular Republican former governor Larry Hogan. The Associated Press declared Alsobrooks the winner over Representative David Trone, despite being outspent by a significant margin.
Alsobrooks, aiming to become the first Black woman to represent Maryland in the Senate, received widespread support from Democratic elected officials in the state. She now faces a tough battle against Hogan, who was recruited by Senator Mitch McConnell in the Republicans’ bid to regain control of the Senate.
The closely watched race will determine the successor to Senator Benjamin L. Cardin, who is retiring after a long tenure. With Democrats holding a slim majority in the Senate, the outcome in Maryland becomes crucial in maintaining their control.
In a post-victory rally, Alsobrooks emphasized the importance of unity within the party to keep the Senate blue. Hogan, in response, welcomed her to the race and expressed his eagerness for a substantive debate on the issues facing the nation.
The primary race between Alsobrooks and Trone turned contentious as it neared the finish line, highlighting the significance of the upcoming general election. With Maryland not having elected a Republican senator in decades, the entry of Hogan has injected new energy and competition into the race, making it a focal point in the battle for Senate control.