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Baltimore News

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Baltimore Mayoral Race Heats Up as Candidates File Final Paperwork

The race for Baltimore’s next mayor intensified as the final candidate filings were submitted. Incumbent Mayor Brandon Scott faces fierce competition from former City Council President Nick Mosby and Republican challenger Sheila Dixon, who is making another bid for office. With the primary election weeks away, campaigns are ramping up grassroots efforts, focusing on crime reduction and economic development. Political analysts predict a tight race, with Dixon’s name recognition posing a significant challenge to Scott’s reelection bid.

Poll Shows Tight Contest in Baltimore City Council Races (June 3, 2025)

A new Goucher College poll reveals neck-and-neck races in several Baltimore City Council districts, with incumbents struggling against progressive challengers. Districts 7 and 12 are particularly competitive, as candidates debate policing reforms and affordable housing. Councilman Eric Costello (D-District 11) holds a slim lead, but activist Shantay Jackson is gaining traction with her housing equity platform. Analysts say voter turnout will be crucial in determining the outcome.

Dixon Proposes Expanded Police Patrols in Latest Campaign Push (June 5, 2025)

Former Mayor Sheila Dixon unveiled a public safety plan calling for 200 additional police patrol officers in high-crime areas. Dixon, who has faced criticism over her past legal troubles, emphasized her record on crime reduction during her tenure. Mayor Scott’s campaign fired back, calling the plan “fiscally irresponsible” without new revenue streams. Community advocates remain divided, with some praising the proposal and others demanding more investment in social services.

Scott Announces $50M Affordable Housing Initiative (June 7, 2025)

Mayor Brandon Scott announced a $50 million investment in affordable housing, targeting East and West Baltimore. The plan includes subsidies for first-time homebuyers and renovations for vacant properties. Housing advocates applauded the move, but opponents argue it doesn’t go far enough to address displacement. Council candidate Marques Dent called for rent control measures, setting up a key debate in the upcoming council session.

Mosby Gains Endorsement from Major Labor Union (June 9, 2025)

Nick Mosby secured a major endorsement from the Baltimore Teachers Union (BTU), boosting his mayoral campaign. The BTU cited his support for increased school funding and workforce development programs. Mosby’s campaign hopes this will energize his base, though recent polls still show him trailing Scott and Dixon. The union’s ground game could be pivotal in turning out voters.

Early Voting Numbers Show Strong Turnout in Baltimore (June 11, 2025)

Early voting data indicates higher-than-expected turnout, with over 30,000 ballots cast in the first three days. Elections officials attribute the surge to competitive races and expanded voting access. Democratic voters outnumber Republicans 3-to-1, but GOP candidates are making inroads in traditionally blue districts. Analysts say this could signal shifting political dynamics.

Controversial Mailer Targets Scott’s Crime Record (June 13, 2025)

A shadowy PAC mailed attack ads criticizing Mayor Scott’s handling of violent crime, sparking outrage. The mailers, funded by a conservative group, accuse Scott of “failing Baltimore’s families.” Scott’s campaign condemned the tactic, calling it “misleading and divisive.” The incident has intensified scrutiny over outside spending in local elections.

Progressive Coalition Backs Three Council Candidates (June 15, 2025)

A coalition of progressive groups endorsed three City Council challengers, aiming to shift the council’s balance. The group, led by Baltimore BLOC and the People’s Power Assembly, supports candidates pushing for police accountability and tenant rights. Incumbents are pushing back, arguing experience is needed to navigate budget constraints.

GOP Sees Opportunity in Baltimore’s Northeast Districts (June 17, 2025)

Republicans are making a rare push in Northeast Baltimore, with candidate Mark Edelson gaining traction in District 5. Edelson’s focus on small business growth and tax cuts has resonated in some communities. Democrats still hold a registration advantage, but GOP strategists believe dissatisfaction with city leadership could flip a seat.

Debate Over School Funding Dominates Forum (June 19, 2025)

Mayoral candidates clashed over education funding at a heated forum. Dixon called for redirecting administrative costs to classrooms, while Scott defended his record on school construction. Mosby proposed a new citywide youth jobs program. Parents and teachers packed the event, underscoring education as a top voter concern.

Allegations of Voter Intimidation Surface (June 21, 2025)

Community leaders reported incidents of voter intimidation in West Baltimore, with residents claiming aggressive poll watchers questioned voters. The Board of Elections is investigating, and the ACLU has threatened legal action. Candidates from both parties condemned the alleged tactics, urging calm ahead of Election Day.

Scott and Dixon Trade Barbs in Final TV Debate (June 23, 2025)

The last televised mayoral debate turned contentious as Scott and Dixon sparred over crime, taxes, and leadership. Scott accused Dixon of “recycling failed policies,” while Dixon criticized his “lack of urgency” on violence. Mosby positioned himself as a unifying alternative, but analysts say the clash solidified a two-person race.

Record-Breaking Campaign Spending in Council Races (June 25, 2025)

Campaign finance reports reveal unprecedented spending in City Council races, with outside groups pouring in over $2 million. Real estate and police union-linked PACs are major players, raising concerns about influence. Reform advocates are calling for stricter campaign finance laws post-election.

Last-Minute Robocalls Spark Controversy (June 26, 2025)

Voters reported receiving misleading robocalls claiming polling location changes, prompting state officials to issue corrections. The Attorney General’s office is investigating potential election interference. Candidates urged voters to verify information through official channels.

Final Poll Predicts Photo Finish in Mayoral Race (June 26, 2025)

A Baltimore Sun poll shows Scott and Dixon in a dead heat, with Mosby close behind. Undecided voters remain high, making turnout the deciding factor. With just days left, all campaigns are deploying last-minute door-knocking and digital ad blitzes.