Maryland state Sen. C. Anthony Muse recently accused the Maryland Democratic Party of endorsing incumbent Ben Cardin before the primary for U.S. Senate.
“We have gone from voter suppression to endorsement intimidation,” Muse said. “Those in control assume that if they say let’s go this way then the rest of us must fall in line with their suggestions. That is not democracy.”
Muse’s comments came as Congressman Steny Hoyer (D) and Gov. Martin O’Malley gave public endorsements of Cardin at the Party’s 14th Annual Democratic Legislative Luncheon. Muse claims when he attempted to speak, his microphone was turned off and the music was turned up.
“There were many views and candidates in the audience,” he continued. “If you are here to give endorsements, then there was absolutely no reason why I was not afforded an opportunity to express another view to my own party. As an elected official and a senior member of the State Senate, that was completely disrespectful.”
Leadership within the Maryland Democratic Party said the group itself has not issued an endorsement, but it is well within the right of individual politicians in the state to state their preference.
“During the primary, the party does not take a stand,” Party Chairwoman Yvette Lewis told MarylandReporter.com. “We’re neutral ‘till the primary victor emerges.”
Muse also has to fight a pushback from leadership in Prince George’s County. Prince George’s County Executive Rushern Baker said Cardin has been a great partner for the county since day one of his term.
“All the things that we’re facing in Prince George’s County and Sen. Cardin helped me right off the bat,” Baker said in a video.
Muse said the turbulence is his party’s attempt to put him in his place for bucking the establishment, said it’s time for voters to have true representation.
“This is the way the Democratic Party has historically treated other voices who do not necessarily agree with those in power,” Muse said. “The environment of intimidation and suppression will change with this election. I do not believe that voters will tolerate politicians who stand in the schoolhouse door and attempt to block voters from gaining a seat at the table.”