[Baltimore Sun] US Reps. Dutch Ruppersberger, Steny Hoyer endorse Johnny Olszewski for Congress
Read Time:1 Minute, 54 Second
Retiring U.S. Rep Dutch Ruppersberger appeared alongside U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer to endorse County Executive Johnny Olszewski Jr. for the 2nd Congressional District seat at a press conference outside the historic Towson courthouse on Wednesday morning.
Ruppersberger’s endorsement ensures Olszewski, a Democrat, will enjoy the political advantages that come from being backed by a tenured statesman with deep pockets.
“I know that he embodies the vision, dedication and integrity needed to carry forward a legacy of progress for the entire Baltimore region,” Ruppersberger said of Olszewski. “With his proven track record of results, unwavering commitment to our communities and deep love for Baltimore, I am so proud to endorse Johnny to be the next Congressman for Maryland’s 2nd District.”
Hoyer said Olszewski’s “unwavering commitment to his community” and his years of public service and “pragmatic approach” made him the right candidate.
“I am confident that Johnny will fight tirelessly for economic opportunity, reproductive freedom, and a brighter future for all Marylanders.”
Ruppersberger, 78, announced last month he would retire after serving in Congress since 2002 to spend more time with his family. He previously served as Baltimore County executive from 1994 to 2002.
Hoyer, 84, has represented his southern Maryland 5th Congressional District in Congress since 1981. Last month, he announced he would seek a 23rd term, quelling suspicions that he would join the ranks of longtime Maryland leaders like Ruppersberger, U.S. Rep. John Sarbanes, and U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin, who have announced their retirements in recent months. All are Democrats.
Olszewski faces an increasingly crowded field of competitors in the May 14 primary, but has emerged as the candidate with the largest war chest so far, and has earned endorsements from other Democratic politicians including House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones, Senate President Bill Ferguson, and Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott.
His campaign said on Jan. 31 he had raised $400,000, the same day he officially filed to run with the Maryland State Board of Elections. His Federal Election Commission campaign has not been updated as of Wednesday to represent that amount.
Ruppersberger’s campaign reported having $821,080.43 on hand as of Dec. 31, according to the FEC.
The primary election is May 14 and the general election is Nov. 5.
Happy
0 %
Sad
0 %
Excited
0 %
Sleepy
0 %
Angry
0 %
Surprise
0 %
0
0