Rep. David Trone, D-Md., has set a record as the largest self-funded candidate in a U.S. Senate primary race by contributing $18.5 million of his own money to his Maryland Senate campaign. He has brought in a total of over $40 million, making him the top self-funded candidate in Senate primary history. Trone’s campaign has stated that he is prepared to do whatever it takes to beat Larry Hogan in November and protect the Democratic Senate majority. Trone faced backlash after using a racial slur during a House Budget Committee hearing in March, later apologizing for his words.
Trone admitted to using a racial slur while speaking on tax policy during the House Budget Committee hearing, saying “So this Republican jigaboo that… it’s the tax rate that’s stopping business investment, it’s just completely faulty by people who have never run a business.” Trone later apologized, acknowledging his privilege as a White man and the responsibility he has as an elected official for his words. Following the controversial comment, several Black lawmakers announced they would be endorsing Trone’s Democratic primary opponent in the Maryland race.
Despite the backlash over his use of a racial slur, Trone leads the Democratic primary race, but is likely to face Republican candidate Larry Hogan in the general election. Hogan is leading the race against Trone by double digits, according to a recent poll. Hogan’s campaign has emphasized grassroots efforts to connect with Maryland voters, hosting events like a family BBQ with tickets starting at $50. Hogan’s campaign has stated that they may be outspent by Trone, but will not be outworked in the campaign.
Trone’s campaign has emphasized the importance of taking the fight directly to Mitch McConnell, Larry Hogan, and Donald Trump, citing the need to protect the Democratic Senate majority. Despite facing criticism for his use of a racial slur, Trone’s campaign has highlighted his commitment to beating Hogan in the November election. Trone has said he should not have used that language in the heat of the moment, and his campaign is focused on moving forward and continuing to reach voters in Maryland.
As the largest self-funded candidate in a Senate primary race in U.S. history, Trone’s campaign has raised over $40 million, with a significant portion coming from his own contributions. Trone’s record-breaking fundraising has positioned him as a strong contender in the Democratic primary race, despite facing criticism for his use of a racial slur. The general election is expected to be a tight race between Trone and Republican candidate Larry Hogan, with Hogan leading in recent polls. Although Trone has faced challenges, his campaign remains focused on defeating Hogan in November.
