Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., has endorsed former U.S. Capitol Police Officer Harry Dunn in the Democratic primary for Maryland's 5th Congressional District.
Dunn served on the Capitol Police force during the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol. He is one of several candidates seeking the seat currently held by Democratic Rep. Steny Hoyer, who announced he will not seek re-election.
What the Right Is Saying
Some conservative commentators have questioned the political viability of Dunn's campaign, noting he lost the 2024 Democratic primary in Maryland's 3rd Congressional District despite receiving high-profile endorsements. Critics have also pointed to the competitive nature of the open seat race in Maryland's 5th District, where multiple Democrats are vying for the nomination.
Others on the right have framed Pelosi's endorsement as an attempt to influence a primary race in a district that will likely remain Democratic in the general election. The endorsement itself has drawn attention to the ongoing political divisions surrounding the events of January 6, 2021.
What the Left Is Saying
Pelosi called Dunn 'a true American hero and exactly the right person to represent Maryland in Congress' in a statement released through her office. 'On January 6, 2021, Harry Dunn bravely defended our democracy from Donald Trump's violent MAGA mob. Since then, Harry's been called to do everything he can to protect Marylanders and all Americans from extremists like Donald Trump. I'm proud to endorse Harry Dunn for Congress,' Pelosi said.
Dunn responded by praising Pelosi's leadership during the Capitol attack. 'She stood firm when our democracy was under attack and helped lead the country through one of the most difficult moments in our history,' Dunn said. 'I'm grateful for her support and proud to have her in this fight.'
Progressive groups have also signaled support for Dunn, citing his background as a former law enforcement officer who witnessed the events of January 6 firsthand. Supporters argue Dunn brings a unique perspective to Congress as someone who protected democracy and now seeks to serve in the legislative branch.
What the Numbers Show
Dunn received approximately 16% of the vote in the 2024 Democratic primary for Maryland's 3rd Congressional District, finishing fourth in a crowded field. The winner, former state House Speaker Michael Busch, received about 45% of the vote.
Maryland's 5th Congressional District has been held by Democrats since its creation in 2013. The district includes parts of Prince George's County and Anne Arundel County, as well as portions of Southern Maryland.
Rep. Steny Hoyer has endorsed his former campaign manager, Maryland Delegate Adrian Boafo, for the seat. Other candidates in the Democratic primary include state legislators and local officials.
The Bottom Line
Pelosi's endorsement provides Dunn with high-profile backing as he seeks his second consecutive congressional nomination. The race in Maryland's 5th District is expected to be competitive, with multiple Democrats seeking the open seat being vacated by Hoyer after decades in Congress.
Dunn's 2024 primary loss despite significant endorsements highlights the challenges facing candidates without established political networks in their districts. His campaign will need to build support among Democratic primary voters who will choose the party's nominee in next year's election.