Maryland's 7th Congressional District special election (February 4, 2020 Democratic primary)

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On February 4, 2020, Kweisi Mfume advanced from the Democratic primary to the April 28, 2020, special general election for Maryland's 7th Congressional District with 43% of the vote. The special general election determined the replacement to serve the remainder of Elijah Cummings' term in the 116th Congress.^[1] Mfume defeated 23 other primary candidates, including Maya Rockeymoore Cummings, who earned 17% of the vote, and Jill Carter, who earned 16%.

In addition to the special primary and general, Maryland held a regularly scheduled primary on April 28, 2020. Regular primary winners advanced to the November 3, 2020, general election to compete for a full term in the 117th Congress.

At the time of the election, a Democrat had represented the 7th Congressional District since 1953 when the seat was re-added to Maryland's district map after the 1950 census.^[2]^[3] In the 2018 general election, Cummings defeated Richmond Davis (R) 76% to 21%. The 2017 Cook Partisan Voter Index for this district was D+26, meaning that in the previous two presidential elections, this district's results were 26 percentage points more Democratic than the national average. This made Maryland's 7th Congressional District the 41st-most Democratic nationally.^[4]

Media coverage focused on seven candidates.^[5]^[6]^[7]^[8] At the time of the election, Talmadge Branch, Jill Carter, and Terri Hill served in the Maryland General Assembly. Maya Rockeymoore Cummings was the widow of Elijah Cummings and a former chairwoman of the Maryland Democratic Party. Michael Higginbotham worked as a constitutional law professor for over 30 years and partially self-funded his campaign. Kweisi Mfume represented the 7th Congressional District from 1987 until Cummings won the seat in 1996. Harry Spikes worked in Cummings' office for 15 years, including as his district director.

All seven candidates also appeared on the April 28 Democratic primary ballot.

For more information on these candidates' key campaign messages and others who completed Ballotpedia's candidate survey, click here.

There were 10 special elections called during the 116th Congress. Eight were called for seats in the U.S. House, and two for seats in the U.S. Senate. From the 113th Congress to the 115th Congress, 40 special elections were held. For more data on historical congressional special elections, click here.

Maryland's 7th Congressional District contains portions of Howard and Baltimore counties and parts of the city of Baltimore.^[9]

Maryland voter? Dates you need to know.^[10]
Candidate Filing Deadline	November 20, 2019
Primary Elections	February 4, 2020
Early voting (general election only)	April 16-23, 2020
General Election	April 28, 2020
Voting information
Polling place hours	7 a.m. to 8 p.m. (election day) 10 a.m to 8 p.m (early voting)

For more information about the Republican primary, click here.
For more information about the general election, click here.

For more information about regularly scheduled elections in 2020, please see:

United States House of Representatives elections in Maryland, 2020

Election procedure changes in 2020

See also: Changes to election dates, procedures, and administration in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, 2020

Ballotpedia provided comprehensive coverage of how election dates and procedures changed in 2020. While the majority of changes occurred as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, some changes occurred for other reasons.

Maryland modified its primary election process as follows:

Election postponements: The primary election was postponed from April 28, 2020, to June 2.
Voting procedures: The primary election was conducted largely by mail.

For a full timeline about election modifications made in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, click here.

Candidates

Special Democratic primary for U.S. House Maryland District 7

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Kweisi Mfume	43.0	31,415
		Maya Rockeymoore Cummings	17.1	12,524
		Jill Carter	16.0	11,708
		Terri L. Hill	7.4	5,439
		F. Michael Higginbotham	4.4	3,245
		Harry Spikes	3.5	2,572
		Saafir Rabb	1.8	1,327
		Jay Jalisi	1.7	1,257
		Talmadge Branch	1.1	810
		Mark Gosnell	0.8	579
		T. Dan Baker	0.5	377
	Submit photo	Charles Stokes	0.4	297
		Paul Konka	0.3	251
	Submit photo	Darryl Gonzalez	0.3	245
	Submit photo	Alicia Brown	0.2	180
	Submit photo	Leslie Grant	0.2	176
		Anthony Carter Sr.	0.2	155
	Submit photo	Jay Fred Cohen	0.2	150
	Submit photo	Matko Lee Chullin III	0.1	79
		Charles Smith	0.1	75
		Adrian Petrus	0.1	60
	Submit photo	Nathaniel Costley Sr.	0.1	49
	Submit photo	Dan Hiegel	0.0	31
	Submit photo	Jermyn Michael Davidson	0.0	31

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source 1 Source 2	Total votes: 73,032
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Democratic primary candidates

= candidate completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey

Candidate profiles

See also: Editorial approach to writing about key campaign messages

This section includes profiles of noteworthy candidates as identified by local media sources, and candidates who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Candidates may click here to complete a survey.^[5]^[6]^[7]^[8]

T. Dan Baker

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography: "My name is T. Dan Baker. I am a very concerned District 7 citizen regarding race relations, corporate influence in government, US foreign policy, and climate change. - Son of a Baptist Minister and high school Math teacher. - One of the first graduates of the Virginia Military Institute to join the Peace Corps. - Huge fan of JFK's 'can do' vision supporting the 'moonshot' and 'civil rights'. - A civilian veteran (US Foreign Service) of Afghanistan, International Public Health professional, and recently returned Country Director of an infectious disease prevention and treatment program covering southern Turkey and northern Syria. I've been fortunate over my career as an international health & development professional to have visited many countries of the world, and I have seen with my own eyes the changes which have befallen countries suffering from poor governance, corruption, and lack of leadership, especially in addressing climate change. I am running because together we must fight to prevent this from happening to the United States! The US Congress is in need of leaders who not only directly represent the will of their constituents but who also understand the global realities of what we ALL will be facing in the coming decades ... leaders who can make balanced, informed, and measured decisions for how best to respond to the Global Climate Crisis ... I am one such leader. Please refer to my website VoteTDanBaker.com for more information."

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

Improved Race Relations via: 1) Universal Basic Income / Reparations - For Native, African, & Japanese Americans and 2) A 21st Century Civil Rights Bill - Covering All Races. Please refer to https://votetdanbaker.com/what-im-for__trashed/improved-race-relations-via/

Reduced Corporate Influence in Government via: 1) Repeal of Citizens United Ruling - End government for hire and 2) Term Limits - 16 years total time in Congress. Please refer to https://votetdanbaker.com/reduced-corporate-influence-in-government-via/

Less Interventionist Foreign Policy via: 1) Ending Regime Change Wars - Apparently IKE was right and 2) A 21st Century National Security Act - Tanks vs. Terrorists doesn't work. Please refer to https://votetdanbaker.com/less-interventionist-foreign-policy/

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Maryland District 7 in 2020.

Talmadge Branch

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: Maryland House of Delegates (Assumed office: 1995)

Biography: Branch earned a bachelor's degree from Salisbury University. He was elected to the Maryland House of Delegates in 1994 and became majority whip in 2007. Before his election to the state legislature, Branch worked on Capitol Hill, first as a staffer, then as a lobbyist.

Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.

Branch highlighted his legislative experience as majority whip in the Maryland House of Delegates in addition to his Capitol Hill experience as a staffer. His website stated, "From Capitol Hill to Annapolis, Talmadge Branch been working tirelessly for the citizens of this great state."

Branch said he promoted job growth during his state legislative career. According to his website, "Continuing his work from Annapolis, Delegate Branch intends to work on initiatives that will bring jobs to Maryland. Not just high tech jobs but regular jobs with family supporting wages."

According to Branch's campaign website, "Delegate Branch intends to fight to increase Federal support for our schools in order to ensure that our children can compete and thrive in the global economy."

Show sources

Sources: Talmadge Branch's 2020 campaign website, “Home,” accessed December 12, 2019; Talmadge Branch's 2020 campaign website, “About Branch,” accessed December 12, 2019

Maryland Manual Online, “Talmadge Branch,” accessed December 12, 2019

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Maryland District 7 in 2020.

Jill Carter

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: Maryland State Senate (Assumed office: 2019), Maryland House of Delegates (2003-2017)

Biography: Carter earned a bachelor's degree in English from Loyola University and a J.D. from the University of Baltimore School of Law. She served in the Maryland House of Delegates from 2003 to 2017 and was elected to the Maryland State Senate in 2018. She also worked as the director of the Baltimore Office of Civil Rights and counsel with The Craig Law Group, LLC.

Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.

Carter drew parallels between herself and the late Congressman Cummings. Her website said, "Like Congressman Cummings before me, I’m a practicing attorney who has the skills and experience to fight for real justice in Congress." She also said the late Cummings called her The People's Champion.

Carter said, "My record on civil rights, criminal justice, and voting rights speaks for itself." She said she wanted to "be a champion for all people, and will advocate and legislate to end unjust practices that target and exploit people of color."

Carter's campaign website stated, "Our children deserve a world-class education. We can achieve that by building new schools, shrinking class sizes, and giving teachers, paraeducators and support staff the salaries they actually earn each and every day."

Show sources

Sources: Jill Carter's 2020 campaign website, “Criminal Justice Reform,” accessed December 12, 2019

Jill Carter's 2020 campaign website, “Education,” accessed December 12, 2019; Jill Carter's 2020 campaign website, “Home,” accessed December 12, 2019

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Maryland District 7 in 2020.

Maya Rockeymoore Cummings

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Biography: Cummings earned a bachelor's degree from Prairie View A&M University and a Ph.D. in political science from Purdue University. Cummings worked in several capacities on Capitol Hill, founded a consulting firm, and served as chairwoman of the Maryland Democratic Party. She was also a 2018 candidate for governor of Maryland.

Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.

Rockeymoore Cummings said her late husband, Elijah Cummings, who represented the district from 1996 to 2019, wanted her to run to succeed him "to continue this fight" for America's democracy.

Rockeymoore Cummings said Baltimore had structural racial issues that she wants to fix. In an interview, she said "the poorest people, the black and brown population of this city and certainly surrounding areas, are in need of somebody who's willing to launch what I call an 'Inclusion Revolution.'"

Rockeymoore Cummings said she had a track record of promoting healthcare and educational policies that create a better America for all. She stated, "I have been working hard in the trenches at every level of government to advance policies that help working families."

Show sources

Sources: Youtube, “Maya Rockeymoore Cummings To Run For Her Husband's Seat | Rachel Maddow | MSNBC,” accessed December 12, 2019; Maya Rockeymoore Cummings' 2020 campaign website, “Meet Maya,” accessed December 12, 2019

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Maryland District 7 in 2020.

F. Michael Higginbotham

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Biography: Higginbotham earned a bachelor's degree from Brown University and law degrees from Yale University and Cambridge University. He became a constitutional law professor in 1988 at the University of Baltimore School of Law.

Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.

Higginbotham said his experience as a law professor offered him an advantage in constitutional knowledge over other candidates. He stated, "I believe that the knowledge I have about the process will allow me to make sure the 7th Congressional District is well protected, but also is advanced."

Higginbotham said the government should adopt policies that make society more fair to the elderly, students, women, black and brown families, and immigrants. He stated, "For me, it's about fighting injustice, it's about making America and the 7th District more fair."

Higginbotham said he would prioritize election and voting reform legislation in Congress, referencing HR 1 in the 116th Congress as an example. He stated, "When you look at HR 1, what it does is it allows for more access to voting. ... We should be encouraging people to participate in our democratic process."

Show sources

Sources: Higginbotham's 2020 campaign website, "Video," accessed January 12, 2020; Higginbotham's 2020 campaign website, "Meet Mike," accessed January 12, 2020

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Maryland District 7 in 2020.

Terri L. Hill

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: Maryland House of Delegates (Assumed office: 2015)

Biography: Hill earned a bachelor's degree in bioelectric engineering from Harvard University and a medical degree from Columbia University. She was elected to the Maryland House of Delegates in 2014. Hill also started a private medical practice in 1991.

Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.

Hill highlighted her experience in the state legislature. Her campaign website stated, "Her understanding of the community and her ability to get things accomplished in Annapolis have led Terri to run for the U.S. House of Representatives."

Hill's campaign website stated, "I have experienced America’s health care system from every side – as a patient, legislator, caregiver, family member and physician. That unique experience will continue to inform my legislative work as I take my fight to ensure that every person has access to quality, affordable healthcare."

Hill said environmental issues disproportionately affect the health of poor, urban communities and stated, "I will employ facts and data to pursue right-sized solutions to address this generational problem."

Show sources

Sources: Terri Hill's 2020 campaign website, “Causes,” accessed December 12, 2019; Terri Hill's 2020 campaign website, “Meet Terri,” accessed December 12, 2019

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Maryland District 7 in 2020.

Paul Konka

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography: "Paul Konka is a retired Navy Captain (O-6) as well as having retired from the Federal Government after serving in five separate agencies, the last being the Department of Health and Human Services, where he was one of the key individuals at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) overseeing the Medicare Administrative Contractors. As a Supervisory Accountant at CMS, he was responsible for its financial statements, as well as the internal controls of the agency. For the last five years he has been a substitute teacher in the Baltimore County Public Schools (kindergarten through twelfth grade) and an adjunct assistant professor with the University of Maryland Global Campus where he teaches business finance and personal finance. Previously he was a professor of finance at the University of Notre Dame. He was also a management consultant with Booz, Allen, and Hamilton and has served as a park ranger at Crater Lake National Park. You may have seen him on VEEP and House of Cards, where he was one of the White House press reporters.He has earned the following degrees: BA (History) from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, MBA (Finance and Investments) from the George Washington University, and JD (Law) from the University of Oregon.
He is married with two adult daughters and one granddaughter.In 2019 he was elected to the Baltimore County Democratic State Central Committee."

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

Climate Change. If we do not solve this problem--and solve it relatively quickly--we might not survive to solve the other problems. We must move rapidly to meet the 2015 Paris Climate Accord goal of holding global warming to "well below" 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels. That will prevent an estimated 150 million deaths from air pollution (NYTimes Magazine, December 20, 2019). In Baltimore, provide "cool roofs" to reflect sunlight and reduce indoor and outdoor temperatures and plant thousands of shade trees.

Financial Responsibility. Government deficits approaching one trillion dollars ($984 billion in fiscal year 2019, which was $205 billion more than in the previous year) are irresponsible and must end. We should have budget surpluses (as we did under President Clinton) during good economic times so that temporary deficits can see us through future recessions.

Civil Discourse. Rather than two sides (political left and right) yelling at one another, we should address any problems in a thoughtful manner, without resorting to name-calling. One can disagree without being disagreeable.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Maryland District 7 in 2020.

Kweisi Mfume

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: Maryland's 7th Congressional District (1987-1996), Baltimore City Council (1978-1986)

Biography: Mfume earned a bachelor's degree from Morgan State University and a master's in international studies from Johns Hopkins University. He also worked as president of the NAACP, chairman of the Morgan State University Board of Regents, and a member of the Johns Hopkins University Board of Trustees.

Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.

Mfume emphasized his prior experience representing the district. In an interview, he said he was "proven, tested, and ready to go to work on day one."

Mfume said that most, if not all, of his seniority would be restored to him if he were elected, putting him in more influential positions than other candidates for the seat. He also said that he "knows most of the people in leadership positions in the House and Senate" since he served with them previously.

Mfume said, "I think I have a real grasp of the issues in a way that relates back to everyday people in the street." He said he would work to lower the cost of prescription drugs, protect workers, and reform immigration laws.

Show sources

Sources: Kweisi Mfume's 2020 campaign website, “Priorities,” accessed December 12, 2019; Kweisi Mfume's 2020 campaign website, “About Me,” accessed December 12, 2019

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Maryland District 7 in 2020.

Harry Spikes

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Biography: Spikes earned a bachelor's degree from Morgan State University and a master's in public administration from the University of Baltimore. He worked in the office of Elijah Cummings (D) for 15 years, occupying the position of district director when the former congressman passed away.

Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.

Spikes highlighted his work under the late Congressman Elijah Cummings. As Cummings' district director in the 7th District, Spikes' campaign website said he "specialized in the sustainability of housing for all people through property acquisition, foreclosure prevention, homeless services, utility services, community safety, lead abatement, landlord/tenant rights, and witness protection."

Spikes said he would focus on creating economic opportunities for 7th District families by increasing infrastructure spending. According to Spikes' campaign website, "He believes working and middle class families are the backbone of America’s prosperity and their hard work should be valued."

Spikes said he would support a repeal of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 and use "that revenue to increase the federal minimum wage to $15."

Show sources

Sources: Harry Spike's 2020 campaign website, “Priorities,” accessed December 12, 2019; Harry Spike's 2020 campaign website, “About,” accessed December 12, 2019

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Maryland District 7 in 2020.

Endorsements

This section lists endorsements issued in this election. If you are aware of endorsements that should be included, please email us.

Democratic primary endorsements
Endorsement	Branch	Carter	Cummings	Higginbotham	Hill	Mfume	Spikes
Individuals
2018 Democratic gubernatorial nominee Ben Jealous^[8]		✔
Del. Jen Terrasa^[11]					✔
State Sen. Clarence Lam^[12]					✔
Del. Eric Ebersole^[12]					✔
Del. Jessica Feldmark^[12]					✔
Baltimore County Councilman Julian Jones^[13]						✔
Organizations
EMILY's List^[8]			✔
Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Baltimore^[8]						✔
Baltimore County West Democratic Club^[14]						✔
Broader Representation Advocacy Team Political Action Committee^[14]						✔
Blue America^[15]		✔
Newspapers and editorials
The Baltimore Sun^[7]		✔

Timeline

February 2, 2020: The Baltimore Sun editorial board endorsed Carter.^[7]

January 29, 2020: According to Federal Election Commission filings, Higginbotham led the candidate field in cash-on-hand, reporting $209,400. Additionally, candidates reported the following cash-on-hand totals:^[16]
- Mfume had $208,600
- Rockeymoore Cummings had $68,700
- Branch had $43,500
- Carter had $41,600
- Hill had $40,600
- Spikes had $8,800

January 28, 2020: Rockeymoore Cummings released a campaign ad.

January 24, 2020: Mfume released a campaign ad.

January 20, 2020: Ten candidates participated in a debate at Soul Harvest Baptist Church, including Mfume, Rockeymoore Cummings, Carter, Hill, Branch, Higginbotham, and Spikes.

January 11, 2020: 2018 gubernatorial nominee Ben Jealous endorsed Carter, saying, "She has the courage to stand up and fight for Medicare-for-all, and she has the courage to stand up to Donald Trump just like she stood up to the establishment in our state."^[8]

January 9, 2020:
- The Ingleside Neighborhood Association sponsored a candidate forum. Carter, Rockeymoore Cummings, Higginbotham, Hill, and Mfume were among the Democratic candidates present.^[17]
- EMILY's List endorsed Rockeymoore Cummings, saying she was a “lifelong champion for social justice, human rights, and strengthening the well-being of kids, seniors, families, and workers.”^[8]
- The Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Baltimore endorsed Mfume, saying, "He has a strong record of advocating for the people of this district and he has a clear vision to bring the kind of leadership needed in a much divided Washington at this time."^[8]

December 28, 2019: Hill announced that Sen. Clarence Lam, Del. Eric Ebersole, and Del. Jessica Feldmark had endorsed her campaign.^[12]

November 20, 2019: The filing deadline passed for District 7 candidates. Twenty-four candidates filed in the Democratic primary, while eight filed in the Republican primary.

Campaign themes

The following campaign themes and policy positions were listed on the candidates' campaign websites in December 2019, if available.

T. Dan Baker

“

Improved Race Relations via:
• Universal Basic Income / Reparations – For Native, African, & Japanese Americans

Show me a US citizen who’s not from an immigrant family and I’ll introduce you to the first of three US citizen groups long owed UBI/Reparations, Native Americans. The US government is guilty of domestic genocide going back to the time of President Andrew Jackson who was a staunch supporter and leading advocate in support of relocating Native American tribes – such as the Cherokee of North Carolina – from the South-Eastern US to West of the Mississippi River e.g. “Indian Territory”. This forced migration codified under the 1830 Indian Removal Act was known as the Trail of Tears during which no less than 60,000 Native American citizens were forcibly relocated with some 4,000 dying during the journey West. As a result of this flagrant abuse of universal human rights and the repeat taking of life, liberty, and property on the part of the US government, I propose from now into perpetuity that upon reaching adulthood all US Native American Citizens ([greater than or equal to] 1/8th Native American) receive a UBI of $2,000 / month.

And when we talk about most US citizens being from immigrant families, we must acknowledge that many of us – some 40,000,000 (40 million) US citizens – come from families of unwilling immigrants brought to the Colonies and later The United States completely against their will. Such kidnapping, imprisonment without cause en masse, and enslavement of some 600,000 forced immigrants from Africa brought – to what eventually became the USA as “free labor” – today is unconscionable. Such activities being condoned by the US Government, has never effectively been answered for nor restitution ever provided. As a result of this flagrant abuse of universal human rights and the repeat taking of life, liberty, and property, I propose from now into perpetuity that upon reaching adulthood all US African American Citizens (descended from slaves) receive a UBI of $2,000 / month.

The travesty of Japanese American internment during World War II has also proved one of the darkest periods of US citizen race relations. Such activities being directed by the US Government upon its own citizens, has never effectively been answered for, nor restitution ever provided. As a result of this flagrant abuse of universal human rights and the repeat taking of liberty, livelihood, and property, I propose from now into perpetuity that upon reaching adulthood all US Japanese American Citizens (whose families were interned during WWII) receive a UBI of $1,000 / month.

• A 21st Century Civil Rights Bill – Covering all races

Regardless of race what I believe most Americans want is to improve their month to month, have their children, and raise their families in safety while still enjoying their respective cultures, customs, and even different languages.

While nine Civil Rights Acts were passed by Congress (between 1866 to 1991), given the ever changing demographic makeup of the United States and the ever increasing outing of xenophobic and racist acts – largely due to modern communication technology – the time has come to take a modern day, multi-racial look at both inter & intra race relations and racial inequality in the United States.

Within the ongoing US experiment – of an ever-expanding multi-racial population – are we as a country aspiring to have an ever more egalitarian and harmonious society or one which falls victim to its baser fears?

In line with the former, I propose opening a fresh, innovative, multi-racial, bipartisan dialogue regarding a 21st Century Civil Rights Bill addressing, existing and future, potential inter & intra racial priority concerns as well as the development of a new, dedicated, Department of Domestic Race Relations & Cultural Affairs at the federal level.

Reduced Corporate Influence in Government via:
• Repeal of Citizens United Ruling – End government for hire

In thinking about the idea of three coequal branches of government, most of us want to believe that the government and its branches are independent of outside forces. Or as stated by President Abraham Lincoln, “democracy is direct self-government, over all the people, for all the people, by all the people.” Such leadership in words and deeds has provided most Americans the sense that we as US citizens are and should always remain the only influencers of government in these United States. This right of the people was first codified by the words of James Madison in The First Amendment of The US Constitution which states, “Congress shall make no law … abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

No where in the Bill of Rights or elsewhere in The Constitution is there language expressing, “that government of the people, by the people, for the people” is the norm EXCEPT when large corporations and industrial lobbies gain greater power and influence – in the three coequal branches of government – than the people.

Nevertheless, the United States has come to a place in its history where in fact the Presidency, the Supreme Court and yes, the Congress are no longer independent of outside forces with each now a victim to the insidious and pervasive influence of large corporate lobbies and the dictates of the uber wealthy. There is no greater example of this outside influence than that codified by the US Supreme Court in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission (558 US 310 – 2010), which held that the freedom of speech conveyed upon the citizens of the United States in The Bill of Rights equally protects corporations, unions, and other associations. However, unlike the American people who have “inalienable rights”, corporations, unions, and other associations only have those rights which are conferred upon them by the people.

Nowhere in the Constitution does it state that corporations are the same as people. As such please join me as I propose to enter the fight to overturn Citizens United removing outside, large corporate interests from government … returning the government to the people of the United States!

• Term Limits – 16 years total time in Congress

The idea of rotating representation in government finds its roots in ancient Greece and Rome where it was recognized that forces outside the will of the people – could more easily gain foothold and influence the will of government – through representatives who repeatedly sought reelection. The wisdom of just such a policy was supported by numbers of the founding fathers to include Thomas Jefferson and George Mason. And in fact up to the adoption and ratification of The US Constitution in 1789, the practice of term limits and rotating representation in Congress was the accepted practice.

In 1808, Thomas Jefferson refused a third term as President of the United States establishing precedent of an unofficial two term limit for this office. And not until FDR in 1940 was this tradition broken leading the way to the 22nd Amendment ratified in 1951 restricting Presidents to two terms in office.

Though attempts have been made over the years at the State and Federal level to prevent “homesteading” or the practice of being in Congress for life, these attempts were made prior to the US Supreme Court Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission resulting in the pervasive influence of corporations and industries in our government or what some today have termed our US “corporatocracy”.

If elected, please join me as I seek to establish a combined, maximum 16 years total time in Congress further preventing outside, large corporate interests from influencing Congressional members who are “homesteading” … ultimately returning us to a government, “of the people, by the people, for the people!”

Less Interventionist Foreign Policy:
• End Regime Change Wars – Apparently IKE was right

The United States is a country born from war and war has been an integral part of who we are as a culture and as a people since our beginning. Nonetheless, during my graduate training years ago, I was shocked to learn the United States has invaded 40 plus countries over the course of its history – many of which multiple times – with as many invasions since World War II as since declaring independence.

While I believe that wars fought in defense of a nation or an ally are justifiable, wars fought in the name of ‘prevention’ and/or under the obscure rubric of ‘protecting US national interests’, are typically wars of opportunity. These types of wars have repeatedly gotten the US into trouble over its history.

A recent example of this is how following 9/11 – after routing the Taliban in 2001 from Afghanistan – US forces were received as liberators by the Afghan people. However, the very next year then Secretary of Defense, Donald Rumsfeld and his Deputy Paul Wolfowitz, diverted the almost $1,000,000,000 ($1 Billion) in US aid – meant to help Afghanistan rebuild – to instead prosecute a war of opportunity falsely presented to the American people as ‘protecting US national security interests’ in Iraq.

In 2011 during my 2nd year in Afghanistan as a US Foreign Service (Health) Officer, I began to question the strategy of the United States Government (and our coalition partners). At that time after almost 10 years into the war, the United States was expending some $1,300,000,000 ($1.3 Billion) EACH MONTH in support of the 100,000+ troops and 1,000+ civilians on the ground in Afghanistan.

Fast forwarding to present day, Iraq remains more unstable and dangerous than ever and alas we are still at war in Afghanistan and with little to nothing to show in return. Or do we? Certainly the American, Iraqi, and Afghan people have little to nothing to show for the near $2,500,000,000,000 ($2.5 Trillion) (CBO) spent in Iraq and Afghanistan since 2001. However, for large DOD supplier and contractor corporations – lobbyist for whom carry immense influence in Congress – business is booming!

Suffice to say, President Dwight D. Eisenhower, retired 5 Star General and former Supreme Allied Commander in World War II, warned the American people in his 1961 Farewell Address of the following:

“Our military organization today bears little relation to that known by any of my predecessors …. We annually spend on military security more than the net income of all United States corporations. This conjunction of an immense military establishment and a large arms industry is new in the American experience…. In the councils of government, we must guard against the acquisition of unwarranted influence, whether sought or unsought, by the military industrial complex.…We must never let the weight of this combination endanger our liberties or democratic processes….”

Considering that the yearly discretionary spending of the United States on defense is now more than 50% of the entire national budget – while programs of the people e.g. healthcare, education, social security, veterans affairs, and the environment all combined are barely 25%. And considering the absence of transparent accountability re. the expenditure of nearly $2.5 Trillion over the last two decades in Afghanistan and Iraq, I say it is time we heed the prescient advice of one of our greatest leaders Pres. Eisenhower (nickname of IKE).

As such, join me in calling for an immediate curbing of the unwarranted financial influence of the DOD on Congress starting with a full accounting and reporting to the American people of the $2.5 Trillion expended in Afghanistan and Iraq since 2001. *FYI: $2.5 Trillion is the estimated 10 year cost to begin reversing climate change under the Green New Deal!

Further, I ask that you join me in calling for a rationalizing of future DOD spending – presently greater than the defense budgets of the next seven countries combined – to more appropriately align with the greatest national security threats that exist to the United States today, climate change.

• A 21st Century National Security Act – Tanks vs. Terrorists doesn’t work

The United States has been on an overall upward trajectory in military spending from the time following World War II until present day. Certainly there are dips and spikes in the spending over the years but still the direction continues upward with more and ever greater spending. The United States government spends +50% of each year’s budget, some +$600,000,000,000 ($600 Billion), on defense, with one result being that the DOD has become the single greatest consumer of fossil fuels in the United States as well as the single largest institutional emitter of Green House Gases in the entire world. (Brown University)

Further, the US DOD has upwards of 800 military bases around the world and likewise that 11 US Navy Aircraft Carrier Strike Groups – capable of imminent warfare anywhere on the planet – are now on around the clock patrol of the worlds’ oceans 24/7/365. (DOD) In effect, the United States has maintained a permanent war footing worldwide and a permanent war economy in support of this preparedness for more than 70 years.

With such an immense force, my questions are: Who are we at war against? & What ever happened to post-war de-escalation?

It is time to rationalize the spending of the DOD to align with the greatest national security threat that exists. The greatest threat is not terrorism nor cyber-attacks, which we cannot fight with tanks and aircraft carriers anyway. The greatest threat is climate change!

I fully support maintaining a force more than capable of defending the borders and shores of the United States but otherwise:

– It is time to begin eliminating force redundancy while reducing emissions at the DOD!

– It is time to retrofit and convert the DOD from the single largest institutional polluter on the planet, to the institution that is leading the charge to reverse climate change!

If elected I will propose a 21st Century National Security Bill where the DOD evolves into the flagship US institution leading the WAR TO REVERSE CLIMATE CHANGE.

Reversing Climate Change (while establishing jobs in District 7):
• Establish the first all renewable energy municipality in the United States

In establishing the first all renewable energy municipality in District 7, what is required first and foremost is citizen and distributor incentives to convert from fossil fuel based electric supply to renewables only supply. To be clear, several outside companies have attempted this in District 7 in the past, but households remain hesitant to switch their electricity supply for fear of a mishap in billing or getting stuck with an incorrect increase in cost. *As a point of fact, renewable energy costs per kilowatt hour are typically 3 to 5 cents less than that of fossil fuel-based supply.

As Representative for District 7, I would work with local communities and all levels of Maryland state and local government: first, to identify the economic and environmental benefits of conversion to ‘renewables only’ for municipal electric supply; second, to move such popular initiatives forward while overcoming key roadblocks to making such a conversion successful; and third, to entreat and lobby the US Congress to provide support for this cutting edge, first of its kind, state and locally run, initiative.

• Train District 7’s unemployed in solar and wind turbine manufacturing, grid conversion, and systems installation

Developing a model for the “GREEN AMERICA” renewable energy employment initiative in District 7 will require integrated investment in both rural (solar array and wind turbine component manufacturing) and urban (grid conversion, electricity storage, and installation) development. To attract such investments will require incentives – for small and large businesses alike – in the form of favorable terms of land use and taxation so that existing and startup green manufacturing companies can in turn offer attractive and favorable terms to their employees.^[18]

”

—T. Dan Baker's 2020 campaign website^[19]

Talmadge Branch

“

Jobs

Continuing his work from Annapolis, Delegate Branch intends to work on initiatives that will bring jobs to Maryland. Not just high tech jobs but regular jobs with family supporting wages.

Education

Delegate Branch intends to fight to increase Federal support for our schools in order to ensure that our children can compete and thrive in the global economy

Healthcare

Healthcare is under threat and Delegate Branch intends on continuing the fight to ensure that every American everywhere has access to the best healthcare that this great nation has to offer

Opioid abuse

People from all over the nation are dying from drug overdoses at an Alarming rate. Delegate Talmadge Branch plans to work on increasing support for studies and initiaves that address the Opioid epidemic as a health concern.

Infrastructure

A bridge builder, Delegate Branch intends to work with leadership on all levels of government to help fix our crumbling roads and bridges^[18]

”

—Talmadge Branch's 2020 campaign website^[20]

Jill Carter

“

Criminal Justice Reform

Like Congressman Cummings before me, I’m a practicing attorney who has the skills and experience to fight for real justice in Congress. My record on civil rights, criminal justice, and voting rights speaks for itself. Over a decade before the murder of Freddie Gray or the cruelty and lawlessness of the Gun Trace Task Force were unmasked, I was fighting on the front lines for police and government accountability as an attorney and legislator.

I served as the Director of the Baltimore Office of Civil Rights and Wage Enforcement prior to my ascension to the State Senate. The late Congressman Cummings called me “The People’s Champion”, a moniker I carry with pride to this day.

Ending Injustice in the Justice System

As the People’s Champion, I will take the fight against racist policing, the failed War on Drugs, and mass incarceration to the halls of Congress. From ending cash bail to civil asset forfeiture and felon disenfranchisement, I will be a champion for all people, and will advocate and legislate to end unjust practices that target and exploit people of color.

Justice not Vengeance

The roots of crime run deep, but they aren’t complex. Crime, especially violent crime, flourishes where opportunities are scarce. Where people are sequestered in poor health and poverty, where trauma is left untreated and where people are viewed as problems and not citizens, the disease of violent crime begins to spread.

Decades of experience are conclusive: harsh punishment is no deterrent and vengeance solves nothing. Three strikes laws, mandatory minimums and the War on Drugs have not ended violent crime, only broken up families and destroyed lives.

Ending violence requires a public health approach: studying the spread of violence, addressing the underlying causes, and intervening early to stem the spread and prevent future harm. Being proactive, providing opportunities, and addressing the trauma lived by people whose neighborhoods are still overcoming violence not only drives down current crime rates, but heals people and communities to prevent future violence.

Education

Funding our Schools

Education funding, largely tied to local property taxes, is terribly inequitable: The average low income school district receives roughly 15% less state and local funding per pupil than the average wealthy school district. Educational outcomes should not depend on a child’s zip code, but so long as educational funding is chained to the property tax, we cannot hope to give most kids a fair shot at a bright future.

Our children deserve a world-class education. We can achieve that by building new schools, shrinking class sizes, and giving teachers, paraeducators and support staff the salaries they actually earn each and every day. We can’t expect the best from our kids unless and until we invest in them.

Higher Ed and Student Debt

Right now, the youngest generation in the workforce is weighed down by an astronomical amount of student debt. Before they were even adults themselves, they were told the only way to make a living was to go to college. And with tuition raised exponentially since the prior generation, they only way for young people to go to college was to take out loans as teenagers – loans that they never would have been given in the first place if they were going to be used to buy a house, a car, or to start a business.

The only way our economy is going to keep moving forward is for student debt to be abolished. To prevent this catastrophe from being continued or recreated, we need to bring back free public higher education. This idea isn’t new, and it isn’t radical. Public universities used to be free or nearly free for in-state students, with tuition and fees representing only small token buy-ins from students. Today, many public colleges and universities have tuition and fees that total what a private school education would have been just a generation ago. By making public higher education free and ending student debt, we can spur economic growth for all generations and make education and achievement truly based on merit, not inheritance.

Environment

Green New Deal

Scientists say we have just 10 years to avoid the most catastrophic impacts of climate change. But the fact is that the people of Maryland’s 7th District already experience the climate crisis on a daily basis. With record heat waves, rising sea levels, and severe storms, we cannot wait for action.

On my first day in Congress, I will join fellow House Democrats in co-sponsoring the Green New Deal, which will lay the groundwork for clean jobs, clean neighborhoods, and a brighter future for our district and our country. Nationally, Green New Deal programs can create millions of jobs and get us off of dirty energy in a decade. Locally, investment in clean energy and infrastructure can create good paying jobs, clean neighborhoods, clean air, and ease traffic congestion with projects that include:

Building the Red Line to bring jobs, connect neighborhoods, and bring opportunities to Baltimore’s most neglected communities
New clean energy generation, replacing incineration and coal and clearing the air for our young children, elders, and vulnerable adults
Providing grants and other support to small and minority-owned businesses bidding to work on infrastructure projects
Prioritizing rail over road to get commuters to work faster, cheaper, and cleaner

Saving the Bay

Much of our district is just minutes from Maryland’s natural treasure, the Chesapeake Bay. Decades of corporate greed have polluted our water and devastated fisheries. A clean Bay means healthier people, more jobs, and more resilient ecosystems. As your Congresswoman, I will fight for increased funding to clean up and restore the Bay.

It’s my goal to see the Bay as healthy as it can be and every American living in a healthy and safe environment. I will fight to fully fund the EPA and hold polluters accountable. It’s good for the economy, for the environment, and for everyone who works and lives in the 7th.

Fair Economy

Paid Parental Leave

Many parents are forced to work immediately after they welcome a new child into their family, either by birth or adoption. For nearly all parents, the costs for pre-K and childcare can spiral out of control. In the United States, the natural stress of parenthood is compounded by significant — and preventable — economic risk. I believe in reducing that economic risk and making child rearing affordable for all families.

Child Allowance

I support creating a universal monthly child allowance, which would offset the expense of raising a child, an aspect of life that is increasingly unfeasible for working and middle class Americans. I also stand for a national mandate of 40 weeks of guaranteed, paid parental leave.

Early Childhood Education

The achievement gap starts young, with the children of lower income parents falling behind the children of parents who can afford to send their children to early childhood education programs. It’s time we begin free public early childhood education and care beginning at age 6 months and lasting through Pre-K, the same as we already do now with Kindergarten.

A Living Wage

Worker productivity has increased for decades, but rather than increased productivity going into wages, it’s gone into record-setting corporate profits that haven’t reached employees. To correct for inflation and increased productivity, we need to raise the minimum wage to a living wage of $22 an hour and automatically index it to inflation and productivity going forward. Raising the minimum wage won’t only help the lowest paid workers, but reinvigorate the economy for the middle and working classes by putting more money and purchasing power into the pockets of everyday Americans.

Government Accountability

Fighting Corruption

The Trump Administration has made it brutally obvious: our democracy is in desperate need of repair. Members of Congress roll out of office and into lucrative lobbying and consulting groups. Right-wing ideologues systematically disenfranchise African Americans, immigrants, and the poor, and the Supreme Court levels attack after attack on voting rights.

Worse still, elected officials pocket massive checks from private interests like pharmaceutical companies, defense contractors, and fossil fuel companies to do their bidding in Congress. But we can end this revolving door of favoritism and corruption by instituting a lifetime ban on Members of Congress and Cabinet Secretaries from becoming lobbyists. Public officials need to serve the interests of the public, not industry, and serving in office cannot be used as a fast track to a golden parachute.

Finally, I would join with colleagues in introducing a Constitutional Amendment to repeal the Citizens United decision. We cannot guarantee our elections are free from undue influence until secret organizations and big industries are once again banned from dumping unlimited, undisclosed cash into advocacy and electoral campaigns.

Voting Rights

Voting is one of our most cherished rights as citizens. With the destruction of the Voting Rights Act however, that most sacred of rights is under attack. All across this country, people of color have been singled out with discriminatory voter ID laws, polling place closures, and modern day poll taxes.

We need to stand up for the rights for which so many have fought and died. To reach young people and new citizens and welcome them to our electoral process, we need to implement an automatic voter registration system, which will register every eligible voter and give them the choice to opt out if they decide. And to end this new era of Jim Crow-style voter suppression, we need to pass legislation in Congress to revive the Voting Rights Act and explicitly authorize the Department of Justice to apply renewed scrutiny to states that have histories – and present-day practices – of disenfranchisement and voter suppression.

Healthcare

Medicare for All

The constituents of Maryland’s 7th District have been suffering under the weight of a healthcare system which consistently fails to meet and address their medical needs. This system is riddled with racial and economic disparities, which leaves patients without care when they need it most.

I believe that healthcare is a basic human right. Our current for-profit healthcare system is wasteful and inefficient. The way to fix this system is by transitioning into a universal, single-payer system, which places emphasis on healthcare outcomes rather than profits. Patients deserve a system that focuses on their care without having to worry that they will go bankrupt if they see their doctor or have an unexpected medical emergency. Opening a “public option” fails to address the underlying cause of the healthcare crisis that we face, in which the insurance industry and large healthcare monopolies deny care to boost their profits.

Universal coverage: prescriptions, dental, vision, and long-term care

On my first day in Congress, following the example of the late Congressman Cummings, I will join the 119 House Democratic members in co-sponsoring H.R. 1384, The Medicare For All Act of 2019. Medicare for All will provide universal coverage to all Americans while lowering the cost of healthcare expenditures long term. It will provide universal care without co-pays, premiums, or deductibles and will expand Medicare to cover dental, vision, and long-term care. Under Medicare for All, we will join every major industrialized nation in the world in providing healthcare as a basic human right to its citizens.^[18]

”

—Jill Carter's 2020 campaign website^[21]

Mark Gosnell

“

Health care

I am prioritizing affordable healthcare. I would vote yes on legislation outlining sustainable and comprehensive medical care for all. If necessary, I would work to write bipartisan support to expand access to the ACA, allowing coverage from a buy in to those aged >55yo. We will reform prescription drug controls/regulation from the FDA on generic availability-especially for life sustaining big impact drugs for diabetes, asthma and heart disease. Advertising direct to customers for prescription drugs would be reduced and a free market with access to medication from Canada would be allowed and covered.

A universal health record to allow access to your medical history to any hospital or doctor with your informed consent. This would also act as your social security card and voting registration. We need to encourage voting, not suppress it!

Crime

Baltimore deserves protection from a well-trained police department and the officers deserve respect for the risk they take every day. Better training to de-escalate violence, new technology to immobilize without killing and a shift in the relationship with the community where trust has eroded. This will take a solid effort from the mayor and chief of police. CCTV monitors can be deployed more effectively. We should consider facial recognition software if used without racial bias.

Drug addiction

Chronic opioid use should be addressed with better combination narcotic and narcan (antidote) combinations. Prescribers of narcotics now get better training and Narcan is available without a prescription. FDA has now approved once monthly muscle injection that I believe could reduce narcotic seeking behavior.

Companies that profited from intentionally misleading on safety should be made to pay for improved access to drug addiction counselling and treatment. What are some reasons Baltimore is a hub for heroine and drug use? Availability and poverty. There needs to be improvements in port security from deliveries from high risk locations. On the street improvement in offers to informants including the witness protection program. A cycle of poverty can only improve with better paying jobs and willing/qualified candidates. I am in favor of raising the minimum wage to $15/hour and would like the new mayor to draw business to Baltimore that might be drawn in by the proximity to NY,PA and D.C. What about a transportation hub for Elon Musk and Hyperloop?

Gun Control

I will be working to establish rational gun control that translates into less crime on the streets and better training and equipment for our police officers. I am in favor of universal background checks and banning assault weapons. I am interested in whether controls on ammunition sales and content can be made without infringing on the second amendment.

Education

I will prioritize education within our district and the country. Good decisions are made by educated citizens and this benefits almost every other problem we have in this country. How often could education improve decisions made about drugs, proper diet and healthcare, gun safety, race relations, career choices? The state controls salaries in most cases but facility standards should be upheld. Better use of Web based learning with virtual classrooms can be integrated into a conventional curriculum on the crucial subjects where inspiration is needed.

A 2 year advanced degree in both community colleges and university could reduce student debt and focus on entry level careers in nursing and computer science. Emphasize trades with skills in plumbing, electrical and construction as we plan to improve the nations infrastructure.

Improve daycare options for working mothers and aftercare options for at risk older children with tutors and supervision.

Environment

We need to admit climate change is scientifically factual. We need to avoid politicizing scientific evidence and invest in strategies that reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. Improvements in public transportation, CO2 scrubbers, increase electric storage from improved battery technology.

Immigration

We are a nation of immigrants. A path towards citizenship should be offered to those requesting it without separating children from their parents. Boarder security with improved technology was always planned. Ignoring the folly of a full length wall and failing to accept alternatives is stubborn and irresponsible.

Budget

Improve Social security solvency. Change the limits to contributions from the top 1%. If an increase across the board, then include a citizen option for mutual fund and other stock options to personalize your Social Security portfolio.

Adjust discretionary spending on the military and improve accountability for the amount.

Control the spiraling high deficit. This trend is reckless. We will be paying for the interest alone before we can take care of your future.

With respect to the job done by our Democratic leaders thus far, I am ready to take a fresh approach to build alliances both in and out of our party to make progress. I would like to see term limits to improve the work done and limit campaigning. The names in this special election are not motivated to change how Washington works. It has helped their careers and nothing changes.

Finally, Let me keep you informed on how we are doing in Washington! If elected, I’ll be starting a new initiative called the CODE BLUE TEAM to keep you in touch as legislation is raised and passed during my term. You are the lobbyists. See below to join our mailing list

DONATE NOW ^[18]

”

—Mark Gosnell's 2020 campaign website^[22]

F. Michael Higginbotham

“

A New Vision: Focused

End mass incarceration with sensible rehabilitative and treatment programs.
Prevent the next housing and financial crisis – eliminate student debt now.
Focus health care debate on providing affordable and accessible mental health care for all.
Demand regional transportation for Baltimore – Maryland residents pay disproportionately more taxes than they receive, it’s our turn for funding.
Stop the calls – A complete ban on Robo Calls nationwide.
Lower taxes for small businesses.
Complete support for the Impeachment of Donald Trump.^[18]

”

—Higginbotham's 2020 campaign website^[23]

Terri Hill

“

Health Care

Even when people have insurance coverage, the out of control cost of premiums, co-pays, deductibles, and prescription drugs are killing them. The back and forth in Washington doesn’t help and has far too many worried about getting any kind of coverage at all. I will be able to contribute constructively to Congress finding a solution that works.

I have experienced America’s health care system from every side – as a patient, legislator, caregiver, family member and physician. That unique experience will continue to inform my legislative work as I take my fight to ensure that every person has access to quality, affordable healthcare, including mental healthcare, to the federal level. I will also continue my work to reduce prescription drug costs, facilitate the development of new, promising solutions to addiction through clinical research, and as only the second female doctor in Congress, I would keep up the fight for reproductive health and abortion rights.

Environment

There aren’t many scientists in Congress, which may be why we have all been forced to suffer through years of anti-science policies passed by climate change deniers. As a scientist, I see the evidence of climate change to be overwhelming and alarming. In Congress I will employ facts and data to pursue right-sized solutions to address this generational problem. I will also push for policies that encourage future generations to acquire the analytical skills necessary to solve problems and compete in a 21st century economy.

Climate change is an environmental justice issue that unfairly burdens poor and urban communities causing higher rates of chronic health conditions, such as asthma, and contributing to rising heat-related mortality. I am committed to ensuring that federal investments and funding are commensurate with the need, reflect a correction for the disproportionate burden borne by these communities over multiple generations, and are committed for the many years required to effect the needed changes and sustained results.

In October I filed a joint resolution asking the General Assembly of Maryland to officially declare a climate emergency, the first step needed for rapid response. We must take action now, in order to survive climate change and address its disproportionate impact on our poor and urban communities. In Congress, I will continue and expand my legislative initiatives to address the root causes of climate change and address its impact including to: decrease energy consumption; reduce emissions; conserve forests; add tree canopy and improve water quality.

Justice

Every American is afforded basic rights by our Constitution, but those rights are under daily attack by the Trump Administration, some members of Congress and even some in the judiciary. As Congresswoman, I will lead the fight to reestablish the civil rights protections that have been eroded and erased by this administration, to ensure no voter is disenfranchised, every person is treated justly by our legal system and the fundamental American values of equity, opportunity, fairness and respect for human dignity are upheld.^[18]

”

—Terri Hill's 2020 campaign website^[24]

Jay Jalisi

“

Education Reform

Our District has a very deficient education system in Baltimore City, Baltimore County and Howard County. The students in grade schools in Baltimore City and Baltimore County are often faced with lack of air-conditioning or heat, and the schools have to be closed when these systems break down. Dr. Jay believes that we need to invest in our children’s education and implement the recommendations of the Kirwan Commission to create a progressive learning environment for every child in our school system, because students of all ages deserve full and fair access to an internationally competitive high-quality public education that meets the demands of the 21st century workplace.

College Education

College education is needed for getting good jobs in this 21st century. However, a 4-year college degree is a very expensive, and sometimes too expensive, for most students and their families. As a Delegate, Dr. Jay, passed a bill that allows any orphan or foster care recipient to have his/her college loans waived over a period of 10-years. As a Congressman, Dr. Jay would support utilizing a combination of tax incentives, expanded Pell Grants and a streamlined loan application process, to make college education more affordable and tear down the barriers that are contributing to our nation’s increasing income inequality and hurting our economic growth by helping students from low and middle class working families obtain higher education.

Crime

Baltimore City in particular, and Baltimore and Howard counties in general, have seen a spike in criminal activities and gang-related violence leading to hundred of deaths every year. Dr. Jay believes that higher incidence of crime is directly related to joblessness and poor quality of education. He believes that simply putting more money in increased policing would not bring a solution our residents seek. As a Congressman he will bring our state and federal leadership together and formulate a policy that provides better quality of education, vocational training for our youth, stricter gun control laws, greater investment in our communities to create better paying jobs, and providing opportunities for ex-offenders to reduce recidivism.

Environment

We need to create millions of good American jobs in clean and renewable energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing; and to directly confront the racial and economic inequality embedded in the traditional fossil fuel economy. We should:

invest in sustainable, resilient infrastructure.
reduce our carbon footprint in every sector of our economy, including electricity and transportation.
top giving huge tax breaks to the big oil and gas companies.
move away from coal, one of our nation’s biggest polluters.
fund more green energy research.
use tax credits to incentivize the private sector to create new green technology jobs in hard-hit urban areas. These companies could then produce made clean, renewable, emission-free energy products for use by both the public and private sectors.
raise taxes on billionaires and use those funds to help the private sector transition to clean and renewable electricity, zero emission vehicles, and green products for commercial and residential buildings.
insist on stronger CAFE standards, with significant fines for any company selling vehicles that fail to meet those standards, and use those funds to provide additional incentives to automakers to build new plants in hard-hit urban areas.
tax the exportation of crude oil and use those funds to encourage clean energy job creation in our nation’s urban cores.

Opioid Crisis

The growing crisis of Opioid abuse, and the resulting death rate, is a blight on our community and for our state. The easy availability of not only heroin, but of prescription drugs like fentanyl, oxycodone, codeine, and methadone is the root cause of this crisis and caused over 1,000 people to die premature deaths in Maryland. As a Congressman, Dr. Jay is committed to use all available federal resources to combat this crisis.

Transportation

Our country is falling behind in maintaining and modernizing our road and bridges, which in turn hurts our economy and our ability to compete in the modern world. I would support the creation of a special funding agency that could provide low-interest loans to states and cities to help finance crucial projects like roads and transit systems. This will take politics out of our efforts to rebuild our infrastructure, and enable us to start building the transportation system.

The money to fund for this lending agency can be obtained by ending the oil depletion allowance – a tax break for the oil industry – that would save the U.S. Treasury more than $10 billion over the next ten years. That amount could generate close to $100 billion in the capital needed for infrastructure projects around the country.

Immigration

As an immigrant to the United States, Dr. Jay knows that America is a nation of immigrants and also a nation of laws. He understands that our current immigration policy is flawed and must be changed to meet the needs of the 21st century. As a Congressman, Dr. Jay will work for a full and comprehensive overhaul of our immigration policy that protects our homeland, secures our borders, and also offers a clear path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants who have lived peacefully in this country, and have agreed to pay penalties and fines, pay their taxes, learn English, and are generally proven to be productive members of our American society.^[18]

”

—Jay Jalisi's 2020 campaign website^[25]

Kweisi Mfume

“

My Priorities

Lower the Cost of Prescription Drugs
Improve and Strengthen Obamacare
Vote to Ban Assault Weapons
Work to Build Safer Communities
Expand Access to Quality Education
Reduce Student Loan Debt
Fight Against Unfair Labor Practices
Fight for Sensible Immigration Reform
Protect and Preserve Our Environment
Preserve Social Security

^[18]

”

—Kweisi Mfume's 2020 campaign website^[26]

Saafir Rabb

“

Education

As a product of Maryland’s public school system, Saafir understands how important it is that our schools are successful and safe. Students deserve the ability to go to school and get a quality education to give themselves the best chance possible to succeed. Education is a pathway to greater opportunity and economic security, and Saafir plans to support policies that make attaining a quality education as seamless as possible.

Over the past few decades, the government has failed to properly invest in education. Saafir, the son of a teacher, plans to advocate for universal access to pre-K and childcare so that our children can begin getting the education that they need when they need it. He supports raising the wages of teachers so they can achieve the same economic opportunity as the students they are teaching.

Additionally, Saafir understands that higher education is important. As a graduate of the University of Maryland he plans to ensure that Americans don’t have to go bankrupt just to pursue a college degree. Over a trillion dollars is tied up in student loan debt, hamstringing our economy. By reducing the burden of student loans we can pump billions back into Maryland’s economy, encouraging financial growth and economic security.

Criminal Justice & Sentencing Reform

Saafir is dedicated to addressing the institutional problems in our criminal justice system. He knows that Congress has the ability to make change, but has refused to address the root causes of mass incarceration. There is bipartisan support for common sense reforms like enhanced law enforcement training, and when Saafir gets to Congress he is ready to act on it.

The rift between communities of color and law enforcement has grown, and Maryland needs a strong advocate in Congress who will protect our communities while working to improve policing. Saafir plans to bring his voice forward in order to root out system-wide inequality in our justice system. He supports sentencing reform as well as the end of over-criminalization of our neighborhoods.

Jobs & Workers

Saafir plans to prioritize the creation of well-paying jobs for working Marylanders when he gets to Congress. Saafir plans to actively support legislation that grows the economy, encourages innovation and protects small businesses.

Growing up in Baltimore, Saafir saw how crucial transportation and infrastructure is to the district. He plans to push for new investments that revitalize roads and provide needed funds for improvements to public transportation. Maryland families deserve to have clean and efficient ways to get to work that don’t break the bank.

As the son of a teacher and a union steelworker, Saafir knows that a strong middle class drives innovation and engagement. That is why he supports legislation that relieves the burden of student loans, protects unemployment benefits, and raises the minimum wage to $15.

Saafir is well-respected as an innovator and promoter of entrepreneurship. Economic development has been an area that has been neglected for too long in the district. Saafir plans to make sure that workers have localized job opportunities to revitalize our community. Additionally, he understands that the economy is changing and sees that automation is taking millions of jobs. Saafir is ready to go to DC to fight for improved vocational training so workers are prepared for the economy of the future.

When Americans face fewer barriers to financial success, they can more successfully contribute to their communities and the economy.

Combating Substance Misuse and Drugs

Growing up in the district, Saafir has seen first hand the effects of rampant drug misuse. He has seen leaders and elected officials turn a blind eye to the root problems instead of investing the resources necessary to counteract this epidemic.

Opioids have hit our community hard and it’s time that our leaders step up and do something. Saafir has a broad wealth of experience working with nonprofits to combat the opioid epidemic which takes thousands of lives in the Baltimore area every year. Our friends, family, and neighbors need help and the only way to make real, lasting change is to be bold and brave, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. Saafir is ready to be the change needed to help those struggling and those affected.

Clean Air and Water

Climate change is real. And we are seeing it every day right here in our own district. This is why Saafir supports policies like the Green New Deal. Our country has been behind the curb when it comes to addressing climate change — and our community has suffered because of it. Our children deserve to breathe clean air and drink clean water, while growing up on a planet that is safe and hospitable. Saafir is ready to bring his voice to DC to help create a climate change action majority that is ready to act. ^[18]

”

—Saafir Rabb's 2020 campaign website^[27]

Harry Spikes

“

Creating Economic Opportunity

Harry believes that Marylanders deserve opportunities to create wealth and ensure economic security for themselves and their families. He believes working and middle class families are the backbone of America’s prosperity and their hard work should be valued.

Increasing the Federal Minimum Wage

Harry supports repealing the 2017 Republican tax law which overwhelmingly benefits high-income and high-wealth individuals and he supports using that revenue to increase the federal minimum wage to $15. All Americans deserve a living wage and increased wages boost the local and national economy.

Job Creation

Harry supports increasing federal funding to states and local governments to improve the nation’s infrastructure. Maryland has many serious infrastructure needs including our roads and bridges, schools, dams, water systems and transit system. As we invest in rebuilding America, we will provide the American people and businesses with careers paying living wages and make our country safer for future generations.

Retirement Security

Harry knows that Social Security is a critical part of Americans’ retirement security and he will work to strengthen Social Security for today’s beneficiaries and future generations. He supports increasing or eliminating the Social Security cap on taxable wages and increasing Social Security payroll tax rates. Social Security reduces poverty for millions of Americans and Harry will work to maintain its solvency so every beneficiary will receive the benefits they earned.^[18]

”

—Harry Spikes' 2020 campaign website^[28]

Campaign advertisements

This section shows advertisements released in this race. Ads released by campaigns and, if applicable, satellite groups are embedded or linked below. If you are aware of advertisements that should be included, please email us.

Maya Rockeymoore Cummings

Support

"Maya for Congress" - Cummings campaign ad, released January 28, 2020

Michael Higginbotham

Support

"Prof. F. Michael Higginbotham for Congress!" - Higginbotham campaign ad, released January 7, 2020

Kweisi Mfume

Support

"Bully" - Mfume campaign ad, released January 24, 2020

Polls

See also: Ballotpedia's approach to covering polls

If you are aware of polls conducted in this race, please email us.

Satellite spending

Satellite spending, commonly referred to as outside spending, describes political spending not controlled by candidates or their campaigns; that is, any political expenditures made by groups or individuals that are not directly affiliated with a candidate. This includes spending by political party committees, super PACs, trade associations, and 501(c)(4) nonprofit groups.^[29]^[30]^[31]

This section lists satellite spending in this race reported by news outlets in alphabetical order. If you are aware of spending that should be included, please email us.

Debates and forums

January 20 debate

Ten candidates participated in a debate at Soul Harvest Baptist Church, including Mfume, Rockeymoore Cummings, Carter, Hill, Branch, Higginbotham, and Spikes.

Coverage:

The Baltimore Sun

WBALTV

January 9 forum

The Ingleside Neighborhood Association sponsored a candidate forum on Jan. 9. Carter, Rockeymoore Cummings, Higginbotham, Hill, and Mfume were among the Democratic candidates present.

Coverage:

The Baltimore Sun

Interviews and questionnaires

Click the link below to view candidate responses to The Baltimore Sun's voter guide prompts.

The Baltimore Sun 7th District voter guide

Social media

Twitter accounts

Tweets by T. Dan Baker Tweets by Talmadge Branch Tweets by Jill Carter Tweets by Maya Cummings Tweets by Mark Gosnell Tweets by Kweisi Mfume Tweets by Adrian Petrus Tweets by Saafir Rabb

Facebook accounts

Click the icons below to visit the candidates' Facebook pages.
T. Dan Baker

Talmadge Branch

Jill Carter

Maya Cummings

Mark Gosnell

Terri Hill

Kweisi Mfume

Saafir Rabb

Pivot Counties

See also: Pivot Counties by state

There are no Pivot Counties in Maryland. Pivot Counties are counties that voted for Barack Obama (D) in 2008 and 2012 and for Donald Trump (R) in 2016. Altogether, the nation had 206 Pivot Counties, with most being concentrated in upper midwestern and northeastern states.

In the 2016 presidential election, Hillary Clinton (D) won Maryland with 60.3 percent of the vote. Donald Trump (R) received 33.9 percent. In presidential elections between 1789 and 2016, Maryland voted Democratic 52 percent of the time and Republican 21 percent of the time. In the five presidential elections between 2000 and 2016, Maryland voted Democratic all five times.^[32]

District history

2018

See also: Maryland's 7th Congressional District election, 2018

General election

General election for U.S. House Maryland District 7

Incumbent Elijah Cummings defeated Richmond Davis and David Griggs in the general election for U.S. House Maryland District 7 on November 6, 2018.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Elijah Cummings (D)	76.4	202,345
	Richmond Davis (R)	21.3	56,266
	David Griggs (L)	2.2	5,827
	Other/Write-in votes	0.1	272

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 264,710 (100.00% precincts reporting)
= 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.

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House Maryland District 7

Incumbent Elijah Cummings defeated John Moser, Anthony Carter Sr., Charles Stokes, and Charles Smith in the Democratic primary for U.S. House Maryland District 7 on June 26, 2018.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Elijah Cummings	91.5	81,679
		John Moser	2.6	2,289
		Anthony Carter Sr.	2.5	2,267
	Submit photo	Charles Stokes	2.5	2,247
		Charles Smith	0.9	833

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified.	Total votes: 89,315
= 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.

Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. House Maryland District 7

Richmond Davis defeated Michael Pearson, William Newton, and Ray Bly in the Republican primary for U.S. House Maryland District 7 on June 26, 2018.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Richmond Davis	31.3	3,554
	Submit photo	Michael Pearson	29.9	3,392
		William Newton	22.3	2,536
		Ray Bly	16.5	1,877

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified.	Total votes: 11,359
= 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.

2016

See also: Maryland's 7th Congressional District election, 2016

Heading into the election, Ballotpedia rated this race as safely Democratic. In Maryland's 7th Congressional District, Democratic incumbent Elijah Cummings (D) defeated Corrogan Vaughn (R), Myles Hoenig (G) and William T. Newton (R write-in) in the general election on November 8, 2016. Cummings defeated Adrian Petrus in the Democratic primary. Vaughn defeated Ray Bly and William T. Newton in the Republican primary, which remained uncalled until the official primary canvass. The primary elections took place on April 26, 2016. ^[33]^[34]

**U.S. House, Maryland District 7 General Election, 2016**
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Elijah Cummings Incumbent	74.9%	238,838
	Republican	Corrogan Vaughn	21.8%	69,556
	Green	Myles Hoenig	3%	9,715
	N/A	Write-in	0.3%	803
Total Votes				318,912
Source: Maryland State Board of Elections

**U.S. House, Maryland District 7 Democratic Primary, 2016**
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Elijah Cummings Incumbent	92.1%	130,555
Adrian Petrus	7.9%	11,272
Total Votes		141,827
Source: Maryland State Board of Elections

**U.S. House, Maryland District 7 Republican Primary, 2016**
Candidate	Vote %	Votes
Corrogan Vaughn	41.6%	10,645
William Newton	41.4%	10,599
Ray Bly	17%	4,351
Total Votes		25,595
Source: Maryland Secretary of State

2014

See also: Maryland's 7th Congressional District elections, 2014

The 7th Congressional District of Maryland held an election for the U.S. House of Representatives on November 4, 2014. Incumbent Elijah Cummings (D) defeated challengers Corrogan Vaughn (R) and Scott Soffen (L) in the general election.

**U.S. House, Maryland District 7 General Election, 2014**
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Elijah Cummings Incumbent	69.9%	144,639
	Republican	Corrogan Vaughn	27%	55,860
	Libertarian	Scott Soffen	3%	6,103
	Write-in	Others	0.1%	207
Total Votes				206,809
Source: Maryland Secretary of State Official Results

2012

See also: Maryland's 7th Congressional District elections, 2012

The 7th Congressional District of Maryland held an election for the U.S. House of Representatives on November 6, 2012, in which incumbent Elijah Cummings (D) won. He defeated Ty Busch (D), Charles Smith (D), Frank Mirabile, Jr. (R) and Ronald Owens-Bey (L) in the general election.^[35]

**U.S. House, Maryland District 7 General Election, 2012**
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Elijah Cummings Incumbent	76.5%	247,770
	Republican	Frank Mirabile, Jr.	20.8%	67,405
	Libertarian	Ronald Owens-Bey	2.5%	8,211
	Democratic	Ty Busch (Write-in)	0%	10
	Democratic	Charles Smith (Write-in)	0%	28
	N/A	Other Write-ins	0.1%	394
Total Votes				323,818
Source: Maryland State Board of Elections "Representative in Congress"

2010

On November 2, 2010, Elijah Cummings won re-election to the United States House. He defeated Frank Mirabile, Jr. (R) and Scott Spencer (L) in the general election.^[36]

U.S. House, Maryland District 7 General Election, 2010
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Elijah Cummings incumbent	75.2%	152,669
	Republican	Frank Mirabile, Jr.	22.8%	46,375
	Libertarian	Scott Spencer	1.9%	3,814
	N/A	Write-in	0.1%	210
Total Votes				203,068

2008

On November 4, 2008, Elijah Cummings won re-election to the United States House. He defeated Michael T. Hargadon (R) and Ronald M. Owens-Bey (L) in the general election.^[37]

U.S. House, Maryland District 7 General Election, 2008
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Elijah Cummings incumbent	79.5%	227,379
	Republican	Michael T. Hargadon	18.6%	53,147
	Libertarian	Ronald M. Owens-Bey	1.8%	5,214
	N/A	Write-in	0.1%	280
Total Votes				286,020

2006

On November 7, 2006, Elijah Cummings won re-election to the United States House. He defeated write-in candidates in the general election.^[38]

U.S. House, Maryland District 7 General Election, 2006
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Elijah Cummings incumbent	98.1%	158,830
	N/A	Write-in	1.9%	3,147
Total Votes				161,977

2004

On November 2, 2004, Elijah Cummings won re-election to the United States House. He defeated Tony Salazar (R) and Virginia T. Rodino (Green) in the general election.^[39]

U.S. House, Maryland District 7 General Election, 2004
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Elijah Cummings incumbent	73.4%	179,189
	Republican	Tony Salazar	24.6%	60,102
	Green	Virginia T. Rodino	1.9%	4,727
Total Votes				244,018

2002

On November 5, 2002, Elijah Cummings won re-election to the United States House. He defeated Joseph E. Ward (R) in the general election.^[40]

U.S. House, Maryland District 7 General Election, 2002
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Elijah Cummings incumbent	73.6%	137,047
	Republican	Joseph E. Ward	26.4%	49,172
Total Votes				186,219

2000

On November 7, 2000, Elijah Cummings won re-election to the United States House. He defeated Kenneth Kondner (R) in the general election.^[41]

U.S. House, Maryland District 7 General Election, 2000
Party		Candidate	Vote %	Votes
	Democratic	Elijah Cummings incumbent	87.1%	134,066
	Republican	Kenneth Kondner	12.8%	19,773
	N/A	Write-in	0.1%	135
Total Votes				153,974

State profile

See also: Maryland and Maryland elections, 2019

Partisan data

The information in this section was current as of May 7, 2019

Presidential voting pattern

Maryland voted for the Democratic candidate in all seven presidential elections between 2000 and 2024.

Congressional delegation

Following the 2018 elections, both U.S. senators from Maryland were Democrats.
Seven of Maryland's eight U.S. representatives were Democrats and one was a Republican.

State executives

Republicans held three of Maryland's 10 state executive offices, and Democrats controlled two. The other five offices were nonpartisan.
Maryland's governor was Republican Larry Hogan.

State legislature

Democrats controlled the Maryland State Senate with a 32-15 majority.
Democrats controlled the Maryland House of Delegates with a 98-42 majority.

Maryland Party Control: 1992-2025
Twenty-two years of Democratic trifectas • No Republican trifectas
Scroll left and right on the table below to view more years.

Year	92	93	94	95	96	97	98	99	00	01	02	03	04	05	06	07	08	09	10	11	12	13	14	15	16	17	18	19	20	21	22	23	24	25
Governor	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	R	R	R	R	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	D	D	D
Senate	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D
House	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D

Maryland quick stats

Became a state in 1788
7th state admitted to the United States
Annapolis,Maryland, served as the nation's capital from November 26, 1783, to August 19, 1784.
Members of the Maryland State Senate: 47
Members of the Maryland House of Delegates: 141
U.S. senators: 2
U.S. representatives: 8

More Maryland coverage on Ballotpedia:

Maryland elections, 2019
Presidential voting trends in Maryland
United States congressional delegations from Maryland
Public policy in Maryland
Influencers in Maryland
Almanac of American Politics state profile
More...

Demographic data for Maryland
	Maryland	U.S.
Total population:	5,994,983	316,515,021
Land area (sq mi):	9,707	3,531,905
Race and ethnicity**
White:	57.6%	73.6%
Black/African American:	29.5%	12.6%
Asian:	6%	5.1%
Native American:	0.3%	0.8%
Pacific Islander:	0%	0.2%
Two or more:	3%	3%
Hispanic/Latino:	9%	17.1%
Education
High school graduation rate:	89.4%	86.7%
College graduation rate:	37.9%	29.8%
Income
Median household income:	$74,551	$53,889
Persons below poverty level:	10.7%	11.3%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, "American Community Survey" (5-year estimates 2010-2015) Click here for more information on the 2020 census and here for more on its impact on the redistricting process in Maryland. **Note: Percentages for race and ethnicity may add up to more than 100 percent because respondents may report more than one race and the Hispanic/Latino ethnicity may be selected in conjunction with any race. Read more about race and ethnicity in the census here.

External links

Search Google News for this topic

Footnotes

↑ NBC News, "Elijah Cummings, a Maryland Democrat and House Oversight Chairman, dies at 68," October 17, 2019
↑ Between 1843 and 1953, the size of Maryland's congressional delegation fluctuated between five and six members.
↑ Maryland State Archives, "Historical List United States Representatives," accessed December 12, 2019
↑ Cook Political Report, "Introducing the 2017 Cook Political Report Partisan Voter Index," April 7, 2017
↑ ^5.0 ^5.1 WBAL, "Dozens file to run in special primary election for District 7 seat," accessed December 12, 2019
↑ ^6.0 ^6.1 The Washington Post, "Jill Carter, lawyer and state senator, joins crowded race to succeed Cummings," accessed December 12, 2019
↑ ^7.0 ^7.1 ^7.2 ^7.3 The Baltimore Sun, "Maryland Rep. Cummings’ daughters endorse his longtime staffer for his congressional seat," accessed December 12, 2019 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "sun" defined multiple times with different content
↑ ^8.0 ^8.1 ^8.2 ^8.3 ^8.4 ^8.5 ^8.6 ^8.7 The Washington Post, "Ben Jealous endorses state Sen. Jill Carter in race to succeed Elijah Cummings," accessed January 12, 2020
↑ United States Census Bureau, "Counties by Congressional Districts," accessed June 8, 2016
↑ Maryland State Board of Elections, "Early Voting," accessed December 12, 2019
↑ Faceboook", "Terri Hill on January 8, 2020," accessed January 20, 2020
↑ ^12.0 ^12.1 ^12.2 ^12.3 Faceboook", "Terri Hill on December 28, 2019," accessed January 20, 2020
↑ CBS Baltimore, "What You Need To Know As 7th Congressional District Special Election Draws Near," accessed January 23 2020
↑ ^14.0 ^14.1 Facebook, "Kweisi Mfume on January 13, 2020," accessed January 20, 2020
↑ Facebook, "Jill Carter on January 20, 2020," accessed January 20, 2020
↑ Federal Election Commission, "Campaign Finance Data," accessed January 29, 2020
↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named ingleside
↑ ^18.0 ^18.1 ^18.2 ^18.3 ^18.4 ^18.5 ^18.6 ^18.7 ^18.8 ^18.9 Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.
↑ T. Dan Baker's 2020 campaign website, "TDan’s Platform," accessed December 13, 2019
↑ Talmadge Branch's 2020 campaign website, "Home," accessed December 13, 2019
↑ Jill Carter's 2020 campaign website, "Policies," accessed December 13, 2019
↑ Mark Gosnell's 2020 campaign website, "Candidate Profile," accessed December 13, 2019
↑ Higginbotham's 2020 campaign website, "Home," accessed January 13, 2019
↑ Terri Hill's 2020 campaign website, "Causes," accessed December 13, 2019
↑ Jay Jalisi's 2020 campaign website, "Home," accessed December 13, 2019
↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named mfumesite
↑ Saafir Rabb's 2020 campaign website, "Issues," accessed December 13, 2019
↑ Harry Spikes' 2020 campaign website, "Priorities," accessed December 13, 2019
↑ OpenSecrets.org, "Outside Spending," accessed September 22, 2015
↑ OpenSecrets.org, "Total Outside Spending by Election Cycle, All Groups," accessed September 22, 2015
↑ National Review.com, "Why the Media Hate Super PACs," November 6, 2015
↑ 270towin.com, "Maryland," accessed June 22, 2017
↑ Maryland State Board of Elections, "2016 Presidential Primary Election State Candidates List," accessed February 5, 2016
↑ The New York Times, "Maryland Primary Results," April 26, 2016
↑ Politico, "2012 Election Map, Maryland"
↑ U.S. Congress House Clerk, "Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 2, 2010," accessed March 28, 2013
↑ U.S. Congress House Clerk, "Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 4, 2008," accessed March 28, 2013
↑ U.S. Congress House Clerk, "Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 7, 2006," accessed March 28, 2013
↑ U.S. Congress House Clerk, "Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 2, 2004," accessed March 28, 2013
↑ U.S. Congress House Clerk, "Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 5, 2002," accessed March 28, 2013
↑ U.S. Congress House Clerk, "Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 7, 2000," accessed March 28, 2013

[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)

[1] NBC News, "Elijah Cummings, a Maryland Democrat and House Oversight Chairman, dies at 68," October 17, 2019

[2] Between 1843 and 1953, the size of Maryland's congressional delegation fluctuated between five and six members.

[3] Maryland State Archives, "Historical List United States Representatives," accessed December 12, 2019

[4] Cook Political Report, "Introducing the 2017 Cook Political Report Partisan Voter Index," April 7, 2017

[wbal-5] 5.0 ^5.1 WBAL, "Dozens file to run in special primary election for District 7 seat," accessed December 12, 2019

[wapo-6] 6.0 ^6.1 The Washington Post, "Jill Carter, lawyer and state senator, joins crowded race to succeed Cummings," accessed December 12, 2019

[sun-7] 7.0 ^7.1 ^7.2 ^7.3 The Baltimore Sun, "Maryland Rep. Cummings’ daughters endorse his longtime staffer for his congressional seat," accessed December 12, 2019 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "sun" defined multiple times with different content

[jealous-8] 8.0 ^8.1 ^8.2 ^8.3 ^8.4 ^8.5 ^8.6 ^8.7 The Washington Post, "Ben Jealous endorses state Sen. Jill Carter in race to succeed Elijah Cummings," accessed January 12, 2020

[9] United States Census Bureau, "Counties by Congressional Districts," accessed June 8, 2016

[10] Maryland State Board of Elections, "Early Voting," accessed December 12, 2019

[11] Faceboook", "Terri Hill on January 8, 2020," accessed January 20, 2020

[hillfbendorse-12] 12.0 ^12.1 ^12.2 ^12.3 Faceboook", "Terri Hill on December 28, 2019," accessed January 20, 2020

[13] CBS Baltimore, "What You Need To Know As 7th Congressional District Special Election Draws Near," accessed January 23 2020

[mfumefb-14] 14.0 ^14.1 Facebook, "Kweisi Mfume on January 13, 2020," accessed January 20, 2020

[15] Facebook, "Jill Carter on January 20, 2020," accessed January 20, 2020

[16] Federal Election Commission, "Campaign Finance Data," accessed January 29, 2020

[ingleside-17] Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named ingleside

[quotedisclaimer-18] 18.0 ^18.1 ^18.2 ^18.3 ^18.4 ^18.5 ^18.6 ^18.7 ^18.8 ^18.9 Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.

[19] T. Dan Baker's 2020 campaign website, "TDan’s Platform," accessed December 13, 2019

[branchsite-20] Talmadge Branch's 2020 campaign website, "Home," accessed December 13, 2019

[cartersite-21] Jill Carter's 2020 campaign website, "Policies," accessed December 13, 2019

[22] Mark Gosnell's 2020 campaign website, "Candidate Profile," accessed December 13, 2019

[23] Higginbotham's 2020 campaign website, "Home," accessed January 13, 2019

[hillsite-24] Terri Hill's 2020 campaign website, "Causes," accessed December 13, 2019

[25] Jay Jalisi's 2020 campaign website, "Home," accessed December 13, 2019

[mfumesite-26] Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named mfumesite

[27] Saafir Rabb's 2020 campaign website, "Issues," accessed December 13, 2019

[spikessite-28] Harry Spikes' 2020 campaign website, "Priorities," accessed December 13, 2019

[definition-29] OpenSecrets.org, "Outside Spending," accessed September 22, 2015

[stats-30] OpenSecrets.org, "Total Outside Spending by Election Cycle, All Groups," accessed September 22, 2015

[31] National Review.com, "Why the Media Hate Super PACs," November 6, 2015

[32] 270towin.com, "Maryland," accessed June 22, 2017

[33] Maryland State Board of Elections, "2016 Presidential Primary Election State Candidates List," accessed February 5, 2016

[34] The New York Times, "Maryland Primary Results," April 26, 2016

[35] Politico, "2012 Election Map, Maryland"

[36] U.S. Congress House Clerk, "Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 2, 2010," accessed March 28, 2013

[37] U.S. Congress House Clerk, "Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 4, 2008," accessed March 28, 2013

[38] U.S. Congress House Clerk, "Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 7, 2006," accessed March 28, 2013

[39] U.S. Congress House Clerk, "Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 2, 2004," accessed March 28, 2013

[40] U.S. Congress House Clerk, "Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 5, 2002," accessed March 28, 2013

[41] U.S. Congress House Clerk, "Statistics of the Congressional Election of November 7, 2000," accessed March 28, 2013

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Maryland's 7th Congressional District special election (February 4, 2020 Democratic primary)

Election procedure changes in 2020

Candidates

Democratic primary election

Special Democratic primary for U.S. House Maryland District 7

Candidate profiles

Endorsements

Timeline

Campaign themes

T. Dan Baker

Talmadge Branch

Jill Carter

Mark Gosnell

F. Michael Higginbotham

Terri Hill

Jay Jalisi

Kweisi Mfume

Saafir Rabb

Harry Spikes

Campaign advertisements

Maya Rockeymoore Cummings

Support

Michael Higginbotham

Support

Kweisi Mfume

Support

Polls

Satellite spending

Debates and forums

January 20 debate

January 9 forum

Interviews and questionnaires

Social media

Twitter accounts

Facebook accounts

Pivot Counties

District history

2018

General election

General election for U.S. House Maryland District 7

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House Maryland District 7

Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. House Maryland District 7

2016

2014

2012

2010

2008

2006

2004

2002

2000

State profile

Partisan data

See also

External links

Footnotes

Information about voting

2025 Elections

2026 Elections

2024 Election analysis

Trending

Public Policy

Information for candidates

Get Engaged

Services

Additional analysis

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