The race for the Democratic nomination for Prince George’s County executive is heating up, with State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy leading in campaign finances. According to recent reports submitted to the Maryland State Board of Elections, Braveboy holds a significant advantage with $530,299 in her campaign account as of January 8. The upcoming primary on March 4 will likely determine the winner of the June 3 general election, following the resignation of former County Executive Angela Alsobrooks. While fundraising totals do not guarantee victory, they can significantly influence name recognition and voter engagement, especially with mail-in ballots already being distributed and early voting set to begin on February 26.

In this crucial period leading up to the primary, financial resources play a pivotal role. Braveboy has been an aggressive fundraiser since her election as state’s attorney in 2018. Her campaign raised $409,026 between January 11, 2024, and January 8, 2025, while spending $146,709 during that time. Braveboy attributes her success to grassroots support, emphasizing the people-powered nature of her campaign. This momentum could be instrumental in boosting her visibility and appeal among voters.

County Council President Jolene Ivey follows closely behind Braveboy, bolstered by a $250,000 loan she provided to her own campaign just days before the finance reporting deadline. Ivey, who was elected to a council district seat in 2018 and reelected in 2022, has been actively campaigning since last summer. She currently has $429,921 in her campaign account. Calvin Hawkins, another contender, saw a surge in fundraising efforts in late 2024, ending the reporting period with $328,353 on hand after raising $333,905 between November 8 and January 8.

Rushern Baker III, a former county executive seeking a return to office, reported raising $120,487 since announcing his candidacy in December. Despite previous losses in gubernatorial bids, Baker remains optimistic, highlighting the economic vision resonating with voters. State Senator Alonzo T. Washington, a late entrant into the race, had $78,693 in his campaign account as of January 8, having raised $51,288 over the past year. His Senate appointment in 2023 adds a unique dimension to his candidacy.

The candidate who emerges victorious from the June 3 general election will face the challenge of running for a full four-year term in 2026. This dynamic underscores the importance of strategic planning and resource management in the current campaign. With multiple contenders vying for the top spot, the coming weeks will be critical in shaping the outcome of this important election. The availability of campaign funds, combined with effective outreach strategies, will likely play a decisive role in determining the next leader of Prince George’s County.