It’s less than two months before the Prince George’s County Executive primary election on March 4, and candidates are receiving endorsements from local and national leaders and organizations.
United States Reps. Kweisi Mfume (D-District 7) and Steny Hoyer (D-District 5) have come out early to endorse County Council Chair Jolene Ivey (D).
“During these challenging times in Washington, the stakes could not be higher for Prince George’s County. That’s why I’m proud to endorse my friend and leader Jolene Ivey,” said Congressman Mfume in a statement released on Dec. 18. “Throughout her career, she’s brought people together to listen and to get things done. We need a strong, battle-tested, and proven leader like Jolene. She’ll be an outstanding county executive!”
Hoyer explained various aspects of Ivey’s life that he feels are well-suited for the county executive role.
“Jolene Ivey has the practical experience, relationships, and drive to deliver for Prince George’s County. Whether as a daughter caring for elderly parents or a mother raising five sons in our county and in our public schools, she knows the challenges facing our community and our people firsthand. Crucially, as a member of the Prince George’s County Council, she has come up with solutions that help Prince Georgians get ahead,” Hoyer said in a statement. “She will continue to do so as county executive, which is why I’m proud to endorse her and encourage Prince Georgians to support her as well.
Prince George’s County Councilmember Wala Blegay (D- District 6) is backing State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy (D) for the seat.
“I am proud to endorse Aisha Braveboy for county executive because I believe she is the leader we need—someone who will balance the interests of residents, businesses, and all stakeholders who contribute to our success,” said Blegay’s endorsement and a public invitation for a Jan. 13 meet and greet at the In A Minute Cafe.
Blegay touted Braveboy’s credentials as a longtime politician and celebrated her values, passions and achievements.
“I have had the privilege of knowing Aisha since her time as a State Delegate in Annapolis, representing Legislative District 25. I have watched her rise as a leader, serving as Chair of the Legislative Black Caucus, advocating for equity and justice, and making significant strides in healthcare during her work at Children’s Hospital. Her leadership and dedication have continued to shine in her role as state’s attorney.”
In addition to political leaders supporting them, Ivey was also endorsed by the local American Federation of Government Employees in late December, while the local International Union of Painters and Allied Trades has backed Braveboy.
County Councilmember Calvin Hawkins (D-At-Large) has been endorsed by Maryland State Sen. Nick Charles (D-District 25) and civic leader Cora Masters Barry, while State Senator Alonzo Washington (D- District 22) was endorsed by Del. Ashanti Martinez (D- District 22) shortly after his announcement.
Get to Know More About the Race, Candidates
With a loaded candidate pool, there’s a lot to know about the candidates before the March 4 primary election.
Reid Temple’s James A. Parker Lay Organization will host a County Executive Candidates Forum on Feb. 1 from 10 am to 1 pm, which will be open to attendees in person and online.
The church-based group previously hosted forums for the At-Large special election and the Board of Education, and this event is co-hosted by other organizations, including: NAACP Prince George’s County, League of Women Voters, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and National Coalition of 100 Black Women’s Prince George’s County Chapter.
“The James A. Parker Lay Organization is deeply committed to social action, empowering our community with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed decisions at the ballot box,” said James A. Parker Lay Organization President Lynette Crosby. “We recognize that strong, visionary leadership is essential to addressing the challenges and opportunities in Prince George’s County. Together, we strive to ensure every voice is heard and every vote counts as we shape a brighter future for our community.”
Additional forums are being held on Feb. 15 at Fort Washington’s Ebenezer AME Church and Feb. 17 at Upper Marlboro’s High Calling Ministries, where all candidates, regardless of partisan affiliation, have been invited to attend. Ivey, Braveboy, Hawkins, Washington, Former County Executive Rushern Baker, attorney Tonya Sweat, and Republican candidate Jonathan White have confirmed their attendance.