Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski and County Councilwoman Cathy Bevins endorsed real estate agent Shafiyq Hinton for the council's Sixth district seat Saturday.
“As a small business owner and new father, Shafiyq has the experience and perspective to strengthen our communities and build a strong, equitable future for our county," Olszewski said in a statement. "Together, we will raise the bar for every community in Baltimore County, ensuring we have strong schools and safe, vibrant neighborhoods where all our residents can thrive."
Olszewski and Bevins joined Hinton for a campaign event in Overlea. Bevins announced in March that she would not be seeking reelection. She has held the seat for more than a decade.
"Deciding not to run for re-election was not an easy decision, but with Shafiyq Hinton I know this district will be in good hands," Bevins said. "He brings a youthful energy that is needed, and I hope you will join me in supporting Shafiyq Hinton for Baltimore County Council."
Bevins, Hinton and Olszewski are all Democrats. The newly drawn sixth district covers the suburbs just north of Northeast Baltimore including parts of Towson, Overlea, Parkville and Rosedale. Hinton's campaign has been focused on improving public education in the county.
Earlier this year, county groups including the ACLU and the Randallstown chapter of the NAACP, sued the county, saying the new county council districts would hinder African-American representation. A federal judge agreed up to a point and the map was adjusted.
If Hinton is elected and Council Chairman Julian Jones is re-elected, the seven-member council would have two African-American members.
Hinton is running against insurance broker Michael "Mike" P. Ertel, graphic designer Caitlin Klimm-Kellner and retiree Preston R. Snedegar in the Democratic primary on July 19.
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