Democratic Rep. David Trone (D-Md) has announced his candidacy to replace retiring Sen. Ben Cardin in the 2024 Democratic primary. Trone, a three-term House member and co-founder of Total Wine & More, has a personal fortune and electoral record that could make him a serious contender for the seat.
In his launch video, he cited his business background and congressional record on substance abuse deaths, the mental health crisis, and criminal justice reform as key issues driving his campaign. The race is already heating up with Will Jawando, a council member from Montgomery County in the D.C. suburbs, becoming the first major candidate in the race on Tuesday with a campaign focused on income inequality.
During an interview with NBC News ahead of his announcement, Trone suggested that his wealth means he will not be beholden to special interests while emphasizing the importance of working with Republicans.
"I believe my experience as both an entrepreneur and legislator equips me to be an effective senator who can work across party lines," said Rep. David Trone.
Trone noted his work on the Bipartisan Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Task Force as proof that he could be an effective legislator if elected to office.
On Tuesday, Montgomery County Councilmember Will Jawando launched his own campaign for Cardin's seat; other potential candidates include Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks and fellow Democrat Rep Jamie Raskin.
The Senate seat is expected to lean Democratic following Cardin's retirement but may attract multiple contenders during what promises to be a competitive primary season before November next year when voters will choose their preferred candidate.
"Maryland needs strong representation at this critical time," said political analyst Mark Thompsonson. "With several high-profile names being floated around for this open seat including those like Reps Raskin or Alsobrooks, it is sure to be an interesting race."
Trone's wealth could provide him with a significant advantage during the campaign, allowing him to invest millions into promoting his platform and ideas.
As co-founder of Total Wine & More liquor stores, Trone has also zeroed in on issues like criminal justice reform and opioid addiction. His commitment to these policy areas could resonate with Maryland voters looking for substantial change in Washington.
"Rep. David Trone has consistently shown that he can deliver results on key issues such as mental health and substance abuse," said Laurie Anderson, a political science professor at John Hopkins University. "His track record may give him an edge over other contenders vying for the Democratic nomination."
While the primary for Maryland’s open Senate seat could get contentious, Democrats have a clear leg up in the general election due to their strong support base within the state. Regardless of which candidate emerges victorious from this battle, they will likely face a challenging but ultimately winnable contest come November 2024.