Del. Gerron Levi (D-Dist. 23A) began her campaign for Prince George’s County executive in earnest on May 1 with bus tour stops in Seat Pleasant, Berwyn Heights, Landover, Accokeek and Bladensburg.
Levi, who has garnered statewide attention this year for sponsoring legislation that would toughen penalties on gang-related offenses, said campaigning comes second to building a stronger Prince George’s County.
“This campaign is about a greater partnership with the county,” she said. “I’m not only kicking off a campaign, I’m kicking off a movement. I’m asking 10,000 residents around the county to join me for 10 goals to a more advanced, innovation-driven, and job-creation county.”
In Seat Pleasant and Berwyn Heights, Levi participated in parades celebrating Seat Pleasant Day and Berwyn Heights Day, respectively. In Seat Pleasant, Levi was joined by opponents, former Del. Rushern Baker and current Prince George’s County Sheriff Michael A. Jackson.
Levi says she understands the work involved in campaigning at an event where competition is present, but it’s also an atmosphere where people can enjoy themselves. The festive parade also included the Charles H. Flowers High School Marching Band, the Fairmont Heights High School JROTC, motorcycle procession and a fire engine from the Seat Pleasant Volunteer Fire Company. “Absolutely this is fun,” she said. “It’s energizing and exciting for campaign volunteers. I’ve walked this neighborhood so it’s an opportunity for me to reconnect with the people I’ve met in the neighborhood.”
Levi, a Mitchellville resident, plans on attending more events like these in the near future. She says day festivals are an excellent opportunity for visibility. “I’m going to try to be in every segment of this county,” Levi said. “I want to hear the concerns of people, I want to meet people and I also want to acquaint them with my message.”
