Former U.S. Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn was defeated in the Democratic primary for a Maryland House seat on Tuesday. State Senator Sarah K. Elfreth emerged victorious in the race for Maryland’s 3rd Congressional District, beating Dunn and 21 other Democratic candidates. The Associated Press declared Elfreth the winner with 36% of the vote, while Dunn came in second with 25.9%.
Despite Dunn’s name recognition from his actions defending the Capitol on January 6, 2021, and endorsements from prominent figures like Nancy Pelosi and Jim Clyburn, he was unable to secure a victory. Dunn raised $4.6 million compared to Elfreth’s $1.5 million, but Elfreth received significant support from a super PAC linked to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee.
Both candidates had similar policy platforms, focusing on issues like abortion rights, gun violence prevention, and healthcare expansion. The seat, left open by Rep. John Sarbanes’ decision not to seek re-election after nine terms, attracted a competitive field of candidates including five state legislators. Ultimately, Elfreth’s success in the primary marked the end of Dunn’s bid for the House seat.
