In a statement released today, former Prince George's County Executive Rushern Baker says he is suspending his campaign for governor.
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They called the statement "difficult, yet necessary." The statement says Barker and running mate Nancy Navarro were "dramatically outspent" by their competitors.
According to the latest campaign finance report filed with the Maryland Board of elections, "Barker & Navarro for Maryland" had just short of $12,000 in the bank as of June 7.
Baker's campaign targeted, in part, the crime problem in Baltimore. His first campaign ad focused on the problem, and he said he would declare a state of emergency to address the situation.
In the statement today, Baker says he plans to remain engaged in Maryland's political process.
Following the announcement of the official resignation of his campaign, candidates released statements reacting to the news.
Gubernatorial candidate and Comptroller, Peter Franchot: "I had the pleasure of serving alongside Rushern in the Maryland House of Delegates. It was clear from the beginning that he was a leader among leaders. His constituents knew they could count on him to bring about solutions that they could feel and see. I’m grateful for his candidacy, and I look forward to him continuing to contribute to Prince George’s County and the State of Maryland in the many years to come."
Former Attorney General Doug Gansler: “I am disappointed to hear that my friend Rushern Baker, who is eminently qualified to be governor, has suspended his campaign activities,” said Gansler. “Rushern’s integrity and equanimity are qualities every candidate should strive for. I have enjoyed sharing the debate stage with Rushern. His positions are always thoughtful and his answers always earnest. Rushern was the only other candidate who understood the urgency of the crime problem in Maryland and across this state. We need his voice and I look forward to seeing what is next in his trajectory of public service.”
Former Hyattsville Mayor Candace Hollingsworth: “Then-County Executive Baker was an excellent partner for Hyattsville during my tenure as mayor,” said Hollingsworth. “He was responsive and worked to ensure we had the resources we needed to build a thriving community. As he’s done in any endeavor, he makes Prince George’s County proud. We wish him the best in whatever he decides to do next.”
Gubernatorial candidate John King: “Former Prince George’s County Executive Rushern Baker is an incredible public servant who has dedicated his career to making the lives of Maryland families better. I’m grateful for Rushern’s friendship on the campaign trail. It’s been especially meaningful to connect over our shared experiences, including both the joys of being Maryland public school dads and the painful struggles of losing a loved one to Alzheimer’s. Rushern and I also have had many conversations about our shared passion for strengthening public education - he and I agreed that it was critical for us to fully fund the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future and invest in our schools, teachers, and students. Rushern was always in this race for the right reason: a deep belief that government can be a force for good in people’s lives. While I hope he’ll be able to take some time to catch up with family first, I know whatever he chooses to pursue next will be impactful and I look forward to continuing our conversations about making Maryland a better place for all. I am also deeply grateful for Nancy Navarro’s leadership in Montgomery County and her willingness to step forward to share her experienced, thoughtful perspectives on the state’s future. I know Nancy will continue to find important ways to serve.”