Maryland Democrats Face Decision Between Charisma and Expertise

Former Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn, who gained national attention for his emotional testimony during televised congressional hearings about the Jan. 6 riots, has emerged as one of the top political fund-raisers in the nation as he runs for elected office for the first time.

Dunn’s $4.6 million war chest is the largest of any House candidate in Maryland and ranks among the top three for non-incumbent Democratic House candidates nationwide. His “save democracy” battle cry has resonated with donors, but he faces tough competition in the crowded Maryland House primary against state senator Sarah Elfreth.

Elfreth, who has raised $1.5 million for her campaign and received significant support from outside groups, is a formidable opponent for Dunn. Both candidates have pledged to prioritize campaign finance reform if elected to Congress, with Dunn vowing to reject help from outside groups as part of his pro-democracy platform.

Despite the influx of outside money in the race, Dunn remains committed to his goal of reducing the influence of big money and corporations in elections. His testimony about the Jan. 6 attack, where he detailed the violence and racist slurs he and his fellow officers endured, has propelled him into the national spotlight and earned him the Presidential Citizens Medal.

The outcome of the Maryland House primary will not only determine the Democratic nominee for the heavily Democratic district but also signal where concerns about Jan. 6 and campaign finance reform stand among voters on the left. With a diverse field of candidates vying for the nomination, including a state senator, an Army veteran, and a criminal defense lawyer, the race is shaping up to be a closely watched contest with implications beyond Maryland.