COLLEGE PARK, MD – Angela Alsobrooks secured a seat in the U.S. Senate from Maryland, making history as the first Black senator in the state’s history.
CBS News reported that Alsobrooks, a leader of the Democratic Party, led the Maryland Senate race with 1.2 million votes (52%), compared to Republican candidate Larry Hogan, who received 1.1 million votes (45.6%). Libertarian candidate Mike Scott garnered 59,395 votes, accounting for 2% of the early total.
“From the bottom of my heart, I thank each and every Marylander. To serve this state, and my hometown of Prince George’s County, is the honor of a lifetime,” said Alsobrooks. “I’ve had the privilege of traveling across this state, meeting Marylanders where they live, work, worship and dream of a brighter future.”
Alsobrooks’ appointment will make her the first Black woman to represent Maryland in Senate history and the 13th Black Senator in all of U.S. history.
Both Alsobrooks and former Governor Larry Hogan competed to succeed Sen. Ben Cardin, who chose not to run for re-election after serving 58 years in office.
AP Called the results of the Senate race shortly before 10:30 p.m. last night and multiple supporters took to the stage to congratulate her, including Congressman John Sarbanes (MD-D), Governor Wes Moore and Alsobrooks’ daughter.
According to Moore, Alsobrooks didn’t just make history, she made “herstory.”
“Two years ago, I was humbled to make history with you and now tonight, we’ve made ‘her-story,’” said Moore. “When I look at Angela, I don’t just see an amazing individual, I see my daughter, my wife, my sisters, my mother. I see all those who came before us. I know they’re watching us now, smiling ear to ear. We understood the assignment, and we got the job done.”
Alsobrooks delivered a 15-minute victory speech in which she shared deep gratitude for Maryland voters for their enthusiasm and support throughout her campaign. She also pledged to work for all Marylanders, including those who did not vote for her.
“I stand here tonight for those who dream of a better day,” said Alsobrooks. “To each and every Marylander, I make your concerns my focus, your hopes my mission, and your dreams my work in the days and years to come. And to those who didn’t vote in this election, I want you to know that I see you too.”
Several Marylanders said they voted for Alsobrooks because they trust her to bring positive change, represent their interests effectively, and to advocate for the state’s most impactful issues such as economic growth, equity and justice.
“I voted for Angela Alsobrooks because I believe women should have a say over their own reproductive rights,” said Maryland resident Helenraynor Hughes.
Barbara Hutchinson lives in New Carrollton, Maryland, and canvassed communities as a Alsobrooks’ campaign volunteer.
“I’m feeling optimistic,” said Hutchinson. “This is a historic occasion. I’ll be 78 years old this month and I never thought I’d live to see a Black woman have the opportunity to be Senator for the state of Maryland.”
