Thiru Vignarajah just bowed out of the Baltimore mayoral race and threw his support behind former Mayor Sheila Dixon, a move that could shake up the upcoming Democratic primary on May 14th.
At a news conference in Fells Point, Vignarajah announced his decision, acknowledging his consistent third-place position in the polls. Despite their past exchanges of words, he highlighted Dixon’s ability to assemble a strong team as a key factor in his endorsement.
Dixon, appreciative of Vignarajah’s support, emphasized their discussions and his valuable ideas for the city’s improvement.
Although Vignarajah’s name will still be on the ballot, his withdrawal could sway the race, especially with over one-third of Democratic mail-in ballots already cast. Political analysts suggest that recent polling showing Vignarajah trailing significantly behind Dixon and Scott might have influenced his decision.
Dean Roger Hartley from the University of Baltimore noted that while Vignarajah’s endorsement could boost Dixon’s campaign, it’s uncertain how undecided voters will react. The shift in support could also benefit other candidates like Bob Wallace.
The decision to drop out came after a heated debate where Vignarajah criticized both Dixon and Scott. He cited Mayor Scott’s handling of city issues, like recycling, as a catalyst for his withdrawal.
However, a Scott campaign staffer disputed Vignarajah’s account, claiming he had sought promises of future employment in exchange for endorsing Scott. Vignarajah declined to confirm or deny this, stating his commitment to Baltimore’s progress as his only priority.
With every vote critical in this competitive primary, voters like Kellie Felder and Amanda McCall expressed their reservations about Dixon despite Vignarajah’s endorsement.
Vignarajah had previously accused Dixon of favoring financial supporters in exchange for pledges. He cited instances involving influential figures like David Smith and John “Jack” Luetkemeyer to illustrate his point.
Despite Vignarajah’s energetic campaigning and substantial fundraising through public financing, his exit from the race reshapes the dynamics leading up to the primary.
