Harry Dunn Announces Congressional Run in Maryland

Amid the familiar world of politics, former U.S. Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn has announced a move that has captured national attention. On Wednesday, Dunn revealed his candidacy for Congress in Maryland. Renowned for his role during the Capitol siege on January 6, 2021, Dunn has emerged as a prominent democratic voice, having testified before the House January 6th Select Committee in hearings that were broadcast nationwide.

This marks Dunn’s second congressional bid. After an unsuccessful attempt in 2024 for Maryland’s 3rd District Democratic nomination, he is now aiming for the 5th District seat. The area, encompassing the eastern and southern suburbs of Washington, D.C., is being vacated by long-serving Democrat Rep. Steny Hoyer, who has been a key figure in Congress.

Dunn, who grew up in the 5th District, particularly in Prince George’s County, emphasized his deep connections to the region: “It’s home and it made me who I am,” he shared with CBS News. He further noted, “We need people here in Congress who are prepared to stand up and fight. I’m hearing the fear of the people in the district, as I speak at events in Maryland. People are scared now.”

The district felt the brunt of federal layoffs during the Trump administration, a point Dunn highlights due to the high concentration of federal workers residing there. Not unfamiliar to political circles, Dunn has leveraged his influence by participating in fundraisers and political activities, rallying support for fellow Democrats.

An outspoken critic of former President Trump, Dunn has condemned Trump’s persistent denial of the facts surrounding the Capitol riot. “I have to respond to the rewriting of what happened that day,” Dunn asserted, vowing not to let misinformation prevail. Trump’s controversial actions, including pardoning over 1,500 riot defendants, have intensified Dunn’s resolve, especially in light of the portrayal of the event as a “grave national injustice.” Furthermore, the White House recently perpetuated falsehoods about the attack on its official website, exacerbating tensions.

Rep. Steny Hoyer, a steadfast pillar of the House Democratic party first elected in the early 1980s, has easily secured re-election in the notably Democratic 5th District, which he claimed in 2024 with over 67% of the vote. However, his departure highlights the ongoing Democratic debate over generational leadership and change.

The contest to replace Hoyer is already drawing a vibrant group of Democratic hopefuls, including Quincy Bareebe, who attempted to unseat Hoyer in 2024, and firefighter Harry Jarin, who entered the race last May denouncing what he called “a bygone era of politics.” Hoyer has given his endorsement to Adrian Boafo, a Maryland state delegate and former campaign manager, describing him as someone who can “deliver results.”