Rep. David Trone from Maryland has loaned over $54 million to his Senate campaign, according to the latest Federal Election Commission filings. Trone, a wealthy businessman who co-owns Total Wine & More, is banking on his personal fortune to secure a Senate seat. However, he has faced controversies over financial disclosures and the use of a racial slur during a congressional hearing.
Trone is currently competing against Angela Alsobrooks, a black woman and executive in Prince George’s County, in the Democratic Senate primary in Maryland. Despite endorsements from various lawmakers, Trone is the frontrunner in the primary and is expected to face ex-Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan in the general election.
Trone is the second-largest self-funder in a Senate race after Sen. Rick Scott from Florida. However, his financial dealings have raised legal concerns, including allegations of not disclosing his stake in Indiana Fine Wine & Spirits. Trone also faced backlash for using a derogatory term during a congressional hearing, for which he later apologized.
Alsobrooks has raised $7.8 million for her campaign and holds $1.9 million cash on hand. The Maryland primary is scheduled for May 14.
