By Tashi McQueen
AFRO Political Writer
tmcqueen@afro.com
As the Feb. 9 candidacy filing deadline approached, Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski Jr. (D) announced his bid for Maryland’s 2nd Congressional District seat. He officially filed with the Maryland State Board of Elections on Jan. 31.
The campaign launch comes after U.S. Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-Md.) announced Jan. 26 that he won’t run for re-election. Ruppersberger has served in Congress for more than 21 years.
According to his website, Olszewski plans to run on gun safety, police reform and equity.
“Together, we have modernized Baltimore County’s government, made historic investments in
our schools, roads, parks and beyond and tackled issues like gun safety, police reform and
attainable housing,” said Olszewski, 42, in a statement. “I’m running for Congress so that we can help do the same in D.C. It’s time for a new generation of leaders in Washington who will defend our democracy, ensure Maryland remains a beacon of hope for women and choice, act with urgency to combat climate change and work to lower costs for our families.”
According to his campaign, he has already been able to raise over $400,000 within 48 hours of his announcement. Contributions came from all parts of the second district: Baltimore County, Baltimore City and Carroll County, Md.
“I am beyond humbled at the outpouring of support we have received since launching this
campaign two days ago,” said Olszewski on Feb. 1. “To everyone who has chipped in and who knows we can do better for our communities and our country, I want to say thank you.”
Before becoming the Baltimore County Executive in 2018, Olszewski served two terms in the Maryland House of Delegates from 2006 to 2015.
As of Feb. 2, Olszewski will run against Jessica Sjoberg (D) of Baltimore County, Clint Spellman Jr. (D) of Baltimore County and Dave Wallace (R) of Carroll County for the congressional seat.
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