(BALTIMORE – November 6, 2024) – As the nation grapples with the implications of another possible presidential term for Donald Trump, Maryland Democrats celebrate a significant achievement: the election of Angela Alsobrooks as Maryland’s first Black U.S. senator. For many in this heavily Democratic state, her victory is a powerful counterpoint and a bright spot in a challenging political landscape. With Maryland’s 2-to-1 Democratic majority, Alsobrooks’ win was crucial for maintaining Senate control.
Alsobrooks, the Prince George’s County Executive, won the primary decisively against Congressman David Trone before defeating former Governor Larry Hogan, a Republican, in Tuesday’s general election. Despite relentless attack ads questioning her character, her campaign resonated strongly with Maryland voters.
Reflecting on the historic win, former Maryland delegate Clarence “Tiger” Davis remarked, “Angela’s victory is a win for all Marylanders. We may be facing turbulent times, but her election gives us hope. We are preparing for rough waters in the years ahead, but this moment is one to celebrate.”
One of Alsobrooks’ most dedicated advocates was Larry Gibson, her former law professor at the University of Maryland, who went above and beyond by funding campaign signs across the state, starting in Baltimore. Richard DeShay Elliott, a campaign journalist, commented, “Angela Alsobrooks’ election is one of the few positives in an otherwise tough 2024 presidential race.”
A long-time Prince George’s County resident added, “Angela’s campaign reminded us that a vote for Hogan would have been for a Republican-majority Senate. Black Marylanders rallied behind her, knowing she would represent our values and aspirations in Congress.”
Baltimore City Councilwoman Phylicia Porter (10th District) said, “I am thrilled for Senator-elect Alsobrooks and for Maryland. Her win is monumental for Black women in politics. I look forward to her championing reforms on climate change, economic justice, and reproductive rights. Her victory is only the beginning of breaking through the political glass ceiling.”
Attorney Craig Thompson, also on the Maryland Stadium Authority, said, “I have known Executive Alsobrooks for 30 years, having met her while a student at the University of Maryland Law School.” He added, “Her consistency of purpose and straight-up sense of determination and grit impressed me then and still amaze me today. Marylanders and our country can rest assured that she will fight for us in the Senate and will never back down from the guaranteed challenges that are certain to face her and the Democratic caucus in Washington. She is the right leader for this moment!”