Angela Alsobrooks, Democratic candidate for U.S Senate to represent Maryland, went to Morgan State University to meet with school administration, students, faculty and staff on Thursday, Aug. 29.
Alsobrooks, a Maryland native currently serving as Prince George’s County executive, shared personal anecdotes, future policies and made several impassioned calls for action and support to everyone in attendance.
“I’m fighting because I believe that our country owes it to you … we want you all to have the technology, the jobs, and innovation — all that you desire for yourself to live in safe communities,” said Alsobrooks. “The right to control your body, the right to live in peace and dignity, and for those in our LGBTQ community to live with dignity and to be treated with fairness … it is not my reproductive freedom that I am fighting for, I’m fighting for all of you.”
Prior to her speech, Morgan President David Wilson shared the Alsobrooks’ potential to make history and break racial and gender barriers if elected.
“We have a candidate with us who is running for the Senate from the state of Maryland and [hopes] to be the first woman Senator from our state and also the first Black Senator in the state of Maryland’s history,” said Wilson. “Angela Alsobrooks, you are at home every time you visit the national treasure and we look forward to working with you in Washington at the end of the election.”
Alsobrooks’ visit, which Morgan announced to university students, faculty and staff in an email sent late Wednesday evening, was an opportunity for the Democratic candidate to meet and cultivate relationships with her constituents.
However, the candidate’s presence on campus — although welcome — was not an endorsement from the university, said Wilson.
“It is important for us to build relationships with leaders who can support our goals and we welcome her visit as we would any other individual who wants to engage with our community,” said the university president.
Alsobrooks’ speech highlighted her commitment to pivotal issues such as economic opportunity, educational access, advancing equality and civil rights.
“I know what it’s like to send a child off to college,” said Alsobrooks. “I’m fighting for your future so you don’t just live on the margins, but [can] live beyond your wildest dreams. Whether it’s economic opportunity, educational access or personal freedoms, I want every young person to have the chance to succeed.”
The audience responded with applause or cheers while Alsobrooks spoke — many being women in sororities.
Sierra Peyton, a senior majoring in political science and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., (AKA) said Alsobrooks becoming the first Black U.S Senator from Maryland would be a historic achievement.
“It is important to have a candidate like Angela Alsobrooks come here and engage with us directly. We are at a pivotal moment where our voices can truly shape the future.” said Peyton. “Alsobrooks represents the change we want to see and her visit reminds us of the power we hold as students …. Her leadership could bring about real change that aligns with our values and priorities.”
Kendi Holland, a junior cybersecurity major and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., said, “Angela Alsobrooks’ campaign resonates with us because it’s about more than just winning an election, it’s about making sure our voices are heard and our concerns are addressed. Her focus on issues that matter to young people, especially in terms of education and job opportunities, is why it’s so crucial for us to get involved and vote.”
Alsobrooks underscored the significance of the upcoming election and stated, “This election is about choosing a future where everyone has the right to live in peace with dignity and to pursue their dreams. We need to decide which vision of America we want to support. Will it be one that values freedom and opportunity for all or one that threatens to roll back our rights?”
AARP published a Maryland Voter Survey Tuesday, Aug. 27 and it showed Democrat Angela Alsobrooks and Republican Larry Hogan tied at 46% among voters. In it, Hogan held a lead among voters age 50 and older. However, it showed Alsobrooks as gaining ground — particularly among Black voters, where she led by 74 points — in the same age group.
“We feel great about the latest AARP poll,” said Alsobrooks. “Our campaign has always been aware that this race would be competitive but the enthusiasm and support we’ve seen from voters across Maryland are encouraging. As for Larry Hogan, we know he is a formidable opponent [but] we believe that our vision for Maryland — which includes preserving reproductive rights, protecting voting rights and ensuring economic opportunity for all — resonates deeply with voters.”
Zattura Sims’El, a 74-year-old Baltimore resident, attended the meet and greet and said she is deeply invested in the community as well as HBCUs.
“Angela Alsobrooks represents a future where our voices are heard and our needs are addressed. I believe she’s the right person to help us move forward and maintain our democracy.” said Sims’El.
Alsobrooks concluded her visit by mingling with students, taking pictures and fielding questions about her campaign — often reiterating her dedication to addressing Maryland’s challenges, from economic inequality to educational funding.
“We need your energy, your voices, and your votes,” said Alsobrooks. “Let’s work together to build a future where every Marylander has the opportunity to succeed.”
