Arthur Baker Jr.

This page was current at the end of the individual's last campaign covered by Ballotpedia. Please contact us with any updates.

Arthur Baker Jr.

Republican Party

Elections and appointments

Last election

May 14, 2024

Education

Bachelor's

University of Baltimore, 1985

Graduate

University of Baltimore, 1987

Law

Detroit College of Law, 1993

Personal

Birthplace

Havre de Grace, Md.

Religion

Lutheran

Profession

Law enforcement and criminal investigation

Contact

Campaign website

Campaign Facebook

Campaign Twitter

Campaign Instagram

Arthur Baker Jr. (Republican Party) ran for election to the U.S. House to represent Maryland's 3rd Congressional District. He lost in the Republican primary on May 14, 2024.

Baker completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Arthur Baker Jr. was born in Havre de Grace, Maryland. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Baltimore in 1985, a graduate degree from the University of Baltimore in 1987, and a law degree from the Detroit College of Law in 1993. His career experience includes working in law enforcement and criminal investigation. He previously worked as an FBI agent, attorney, police officer, and actor.

Baker has been affiliated with the following organizations:

• FBI Agents Association
• Society of Former Agents of the FBI
• Fraternal Order of Police
• Screen Actors Guild/American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (eligible)

Elections

2024

See also: Maryland's 3rd Congressional District election, 2024

Maryland's 3rd Congressional District election, 2024 (May 14 Democratic primary)

Maryland's 3rd Congressional District election, 2024 (May 14 Republican primary)

General election

General election for U.S. House Maryland District 3

Sarah Elfreth defeated Rob Steinberger and Miguel Barajas in the general election for U.S. House Maryland District 3 on November 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Sarah Elfreth (D)	59.3	236,681
		Rob Steinberger (R)	37.9	151,186
		Miguel Barajas (L)	2.6	10,471
		Other/Write-in votes	0.2	862

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	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 399,200
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
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Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House Maryland District 3

The following candidates ran in the Democratic primary for U.S. House Maryland District 3 on May 14, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Sarah Elfreth	36.2	29,459
		Harry Dunn	25.0	20,380
		Clarence Lam	11.7	9,548
		Terri L. Hill	6.5	5,318
		Mark S. Chang	5.0	4,106
		Aisha Khan	2.7	2,199
		Mike Rogers	2.6	2,147
		John Morse	1.8	1,447
		Abigail Diehl	1.7	1,379
		Lindsay Donahue	1.5	1,213
		Juan Dominguez	1.3	1,025
		Michael Coburn	0.7	583
		Malcolm Colombo	0.6	527
		Don Quinn	0.5	408
		Kristin Lyman Nabors	0.5	397
		Jeffrey Woodard	0.4	352
		Gary Schuman	0.4	286
		Mark Gosnell	0.3	221
		Jake Pretot	0.2	162
		Matt Libber	0.2	159
	Submit photo	Stewart Silver	0.1	78
		Dan Rupli	0.0	34

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 81,428
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

• John Sarbanes (D)
• Vanessa Atterbeary (D)

Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. House Maryland District 3

The following candidates ran in the Republican primary for U.S. House Maryland District 3 on May 14, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Rob Steinberger	25.1	8,766
		Arthur Baker Jr.	19.9	6,931
		Bernard Flowers	17.3	6,028
		Joshua Morales	9.1	3,159
		Jordan Mayo	8.4	2,918
	Submit photo	Thomas Harris	8.2	2,857
		Ray Bly	5.8	2,015
	Submit photo	John Rea	3.2	1,120
		Naveed Mian	3.1	1,085

---

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 34,879
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Baker in this election.

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Arthur Baker Jr. completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Baker's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a native Marylander, living here for 52 years and in Ellicott City for 26 years. I love Maryland. My professional life has been dedicated to law enforcement. I am an attorney, a retired FBI agent (30+years), and a former Baltimore County police officer. I held senior positions on Capitol Hill (7 yrs), on both the House and the Senate Judiciary Committees. I was responsible for significant legislation from drafting language to the passage of what became law. I am also currently an actor (Little Caesars Pizza, Blue Emu arthritis cream, Ocean City MD Tourism, and more) and a former radio announcer. I love Maryland and the USA, but politically speaking from a law enforcement perspective, if Maryland is "America in Miniature," then I believe we are all in trouble. I am ready willing and able to represent you from from Day One!

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

• I am a law and order candidate. My entire adult life has been law enforcement. I benefit from the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA) and support enhancements to what is sometimes a confusing piece of legislation. As a former Maryland police officer and Maryland Police Training Commission certified instructor, I know the law enforcement issues that are important to cops. Policing should not be a political issue, it is common sense! As a former Baltimore County officer, I was once protected by the Maryland Law Enforcement Officers Bill of Rights. I know how important that protection was. I will fight to restore and enhance every single protection and every single ounce of dignity that the policing profession deserves.
• Gun control and gun safety means different things to different people. Maryland has had some of the strictest gun controls in the country. It was difficult under Maryland law to get a conceal-carry permit even if you were retired from law enforcement. Did this make Marylanders any safer? ABSOLUTELY NOT! Maryland has tried to circumvent the U.S. Supreme Court decisions that struck down Maryland gun laws. The result is confusion by those legally carrying a firearm. Criminals don't care about gun restrictions, they love them! From a victims perspective, there is no better victim than an unarmed victim. Let's focus on reducing crime and removing violent offenders from our streets!
• The "melting pot" that we are is our greatest strength. But anything that deals with sudden or progressively increased demand for attention or resources has a breaking point. Be it a shortage of consumer goods or hospital beds/medicines during a pandemic/disaster, empty grocery store shelves before an impending storm, or an electrical blackout when demand surpasses supply, so it is with immigration. In order to address the immigration crisis we need a realistic immigration policy and meaningful enforcement. Like friends you invite to your home, you expect them to enter through your front door, and not sneak in from an unlocked window. Lets: Secure our borders/ Deport illegals/No sanctuary cities/Support ICE/Welcome LEGAL immigrants.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Crime, National Security, National Defense, Taxes

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I have always admired Benjamin Franklin. I like that he was always experimenting with things, thinking about things, and always contributing.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Cecil B. DeMille's - "The Ten Commandments"

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

A successful elected official will have a willingness to serve and a willingness to sacrifice. Having worked on Capitol Hill, I have seen the incredible hours that Members and staff work. When they are back in their districts, it is not the "recess" that people often think it is. That is when the Members can meet with constituents and talk about what is going on in Washington D.C. and learn what is on the minds of their constituents. A good elected official will LISTEN and remember that they represent ALL of the constituents in their district. Personal integrity and setting an example of civility is important. Elected officials should be statesmen, not screaming idiots. Personal and professional conduct should never be such that ones allegiance and love for the U.S.A. is questioned.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I listen to people when formulating an answer to a question or a solution to a problem. I have been an FBI agent, a police officer, and an attorney. I know how evil people can be and how dangerous it can be on the streets.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Listen to your constituents and do everything to make their quality of life better and that of all Americans. Contribute positively to the ever evolving American story.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

Apollo 11, the first moon landing. i was 8 years old.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I worked in an ice cream store for a couple of years in my early teens.

What is your favorite book? Why?

I like books about acting. Sanford Meisner on Acting, in a journal format, follows students on a journey through a New York acting class. It is interesting to see the students evolve and feel their growth, pain, and confusion as they do simple things wrong, in an attempt to imitate life..

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Batman...psychologically he has so many different dimensions and he is out to clean-up crime and corruption! We could use him in Baltimore!

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

As an aficionado of all music and a former radio announcer and radio disc-jockey, I love all music. I would say the the last song stuck in my head was from a 60's group called "The Choir." They recorded a song in 1967 called "It's Cold Outside." That song has been hard to shake for me. Several members of that group went on to join Eric Carmen and the Raspberries, power poppers from the '70s. Neil Young's "Harvest Moon" as covered the the internet group "Foxes and Fossils" is great...Young's version is exceptional too.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

I have never known when to call it quits, when to turn out the lights and call it a day. I am always doing something.

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

I think it is unique as a governmental institution because it is so close to the pulse of the people. It is relatively easy to contact your representative and share your thoughts on issues or other concerns. Congressional districts are relatively small...your representative in most cases is one of the stakeholders in the community and hence more in tune with, and more accountable to, their constituents. With 435 members, there is tremendous diversity in backgrounds and experiences in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

I think some experience can help with getting off to a quick start in representing the district and navigating the legislative process, but I also thing that no experience in politics or government brings in fresh perspectives with no favors to pay or alliances to be beholden to. Many times just good common-sense wins the day.

What do you perceive to be the United States’ greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

I think our biggest challenge, because it has to be fixed before we can address other challenges, is getting along with each other and learning to compromise. We are so divided as a country. We have to fix this because it makes us weak. Crime, Immigration and all of the other policy issues can be addressed if we learn to work together again. Emerging challenges for the U.S.A will be how we are viewed in the world and the option that developing countries will have in turning to other powers for assistance and guidance...powers that want to supplant the U.S. as the dominate player in world politics. I also think we have to examine and improve our voting process. We just have too many problems post election day for a country that is based on a democracy built on free elections. The cornerstone of democracy is the ability of those governed to freely choose who will govern them. The "will of the People" must be the "will of the People" and must never be manipulated. To this end, elections must be secure and at the same time not disenfranchise voters who are entitled to vote. A common-sense approach might be to incorporate the best practices of election security from across the country and consider standardizing, at least national elections, administered by the States.

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

While I support term limits, I do question if 2 years is too short of a term for representatives. The legislative process is long and 2 years may be too short to actually accomplish anything meaningful.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

I would support term limits. The concept of "career" politicians just has too many problems. I do question if 2 years is too short for a term in the House of Representative though. It seems to me that you just get sworn in and it becomes time to for a new campaign election cycle all over again. As a newly elected Representative, you just learn your way around and you just learn the process and the session comes to an end. Term limits for committee chairman where it does not exist should be explored. These are my thoughts, but I would listen to my constituents. I would represent them.

Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

I worked on Capitol Hill for about 7 years and saw may representatives, on both sides of the aisle, that I thought were great people. I felt that they represented those that elected them well. The common denominator was passion in their advocacy and a general courtesy, politeness and basic kindness in their interactions with constituents, staff, and strangers.

Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

I travel in the district in which I live in frequently. The one impactful thing I hear repeatedly relates to Maryland's crime problem. General discussion and personal stories all relate to a fear of going out in general and especially going to Baltimore. Carjacking, violent crime, youth crime, and a lack of traffic enforcement targeting aggressive drivers are all impacting the quality of life in Maryland. Maryland's leaders have failed their constituents in addressing these concerns in meaningful ways that produce results.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Yes, in most instances.

The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?

This power should and would be used by my representation in the House to lower taxes and reduce spending across the board. Any revenue raised for the purpose of a grant to any State would be tied with metrics to be met, that would be tied to a specific priority like crime reduction.

How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?

In an open setting except where classified or defense secrets or other secrets would be compromised. Investigations should be non-partisan and not for the purpose of embarrassing the other side. We already see that the power of impeachment is sliding down the slippery slope of abuse to a point that it will mean nothing. Lets work for the people of the U.S. and investigate things that need to be investigated in order to serve them.

What committees interest you?

Judiciary, Intelligence, Homeland Security

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I support financial transparency and government accountability, subject to any necessary protections for classified materials and the guarding of our Nations military secrets. An open society such as ours is a target rich environment for our adversaries.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Campaign website

Baker’s campaign website stated the following:

“	While I certainly have beliefs and opinions on various topics and issues, it is my desire to represent YOU, THE PEOPLE, on these matters before the United States Congress. So many Members, when they get elected, advocate for their own beliefs and disregard a good number of their constituents. I WILL REPRESENT YOU. Here are a few of my thoughts on key topics and I want to hear yours.... I intend to visit every community within the Third District. I am ready to discuss with all residents the issues you care about. Many of us are either active participants in the political process or what I call the "slumber party." These are constituents who have not been actively involved in politics...they have busy lives, jobs, schools, family responsibility. Sometimes they assume that everything is on auto-pilot. They are honest, tax paying, hard working citizens. The "slumber party" is the silent majority. They are often awakened to be horrified at what the world and this country have become, what the laws allow, and how in many instances we have lost our voices. It is not wrong to be in the "slumber party." They are the majority, not the people out violently protesting, burning buildings down, or impeding traffic to make their political point. The slumber party consists of hard-working people who have trudged to work each day, raised families, held many responsibilities, and are too respectful of the law to engage in violent activities. They rarely participate in polling. They are the vote that makes change and causes surprises on election night...when they vote. Please cast your vote for me. This is a new district...make it your district...make your voice heard! I will represent ALL of the district. CRIME ​ It should come as no surprise that my number one issue is crime. As a law enforcement professional for over 35 years, I can never recall a time in my professional life where people seem so concerned about being victimized by violent crime. We have to stop vilifying the police and return to taking violent offenders off the street and keeping them off the street. Policing must be returned to a respected profession and a calling that is worthy of devoting a lifetime of service to. Everyone deserves due process. It is now cliché but guns don't kill people... people kill people with guns. I have carried a weapon on and off duty for approximately 35 years, most of my adult life. Any law-abiding citizen that wants to exercise their Second Amendment right to protect themselves and their family if necessary should be able to do so without any undo interference by the state. While I do believe there should be minimum qualifications and training standards, I do not believe a state should obstruct the rights of law-abiding citizens to conceal-carry, especially in a state where violent crime has become the norm. TAXES The citizens of this country and the state of Maryland pay way too much of THEIR money in taxes. Money that is often wasted. Gambling and marijuana use in many of our states, including Maryland, is now legal. It has been reported that Maryland, in the first 3 months of legalized marijuana sales generated around 12 million dollars in profit...will that lower our taxes? Has gambling revenue lowered our taxes? The taxing authorities act as if our money belongs to them. The money belongs to the PEOPLE and the people need more of a say in how it is spent...taxes MUST be reduced across the board. Families first, not the tax man! EDUCATION Education is the foundation for a successful future. I support policies that increase responsible funding for schools, improve teacher pay and benefits, and make higher education and education in the trades more accessible and affordable for everyone. Parents should be able to choose what is best for their kids. I do not support busing your students to schools not in your neighborhood. When you bought your homes, you researched the school systems serving your community. You have a right to expect that your kids will go to the schools in their neighborhoods and not spend time commuting to other areas. I would support tax credits for parents who choose to send their kids to private school. While many of these issues are local, I would ensure that Federal dollars did not fund educational programs and projects that did not focus on learning core subjects, passing tests and graduating. IMMIGRATION We are a nation of immigrants. Some of my ancestors came to this country from Greece. Some through Ellis Island and some through Baltimore. They came to the United States legally. We welcome legal immigrants. Our borders must be secure and a reasonable immigration policy implemented. No Federal dollars to fund sanctuary cities. Come to our country through the front door and you will be greeted with open arms.	”
—Arthur Baker Jr.’s campaign website (2024)

Campaign finance summary

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Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.

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Arthur Baker Jr. campaign contribution history

Year	Office	Status	Contributions	Expenditures
2024*	U.S. House Maryland District 3	Lost primary	$5,516	$9,971
Grand total			$5,516	$9,971
Sources: OpenSecrets,  Federal Elections Commission ***This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
* Data from this year may not be complete

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Candidate

U.S. House Maryland District 3

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Footnotes

[show]

Maryland's current delegation to the United States Congress

Senators

Angela Alsobrooks (D)

Chris Hollen (D)

Representatives

District 1

Andrew Harris (R)

District 2

John Olszewski (D)

District 3

Sarah Elfreth (D)

District 4

Glenn Ivey (D)

District 5

Steny Hoyer (D)

District 6

April McClain-Delaney (D)

District 7

Kweisi Mfume (D)

District 8

Jamie Raskin (D)

Democratic Party (9)

Republican Party (1)