In the 2024 Baltimore mayor’s race, incumbent Brandon Scott is facing off against former Mayor Sheila Dixon, both of whom have run against each other in the past. Public safety has been a central issue in their campaigns, with Scott emphasizing his anti-violence strategies and Dixon focusing on policing quality of life crimes. Baltimore’s homicide rate has fallen significantly over the past several months, but issues such as the rise in car thefts and the city’s vacancy crisis still remain top concerns for residents.
Scott, at 40 years old, brought a youthful energy to the office four years ago and has been leading the city in the aftermath of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse. Dixon, who is 70 years old, touts her track record of helping Baltimore’s most vulnerable residents during her previous tenure as mayor. The candidates have presented plans to revitalize neighborhoods impacted by historically racist housing policies and have engaged in debates over whether Baltimore residents currently feel safe in their neighborhoods.
Baltimore homicides fell below 300 last year for the first time in nearly a decade, marking a positive trend that has continued into 2024. Scott has focused on investing in community organizations to prevent violence and provide opportunities for youth, while Dixon has expressed support for similar strategies and emphasized addressing nonviolent crimes driving residents to move elsewhere. Despite her past conviction for embezzlement, Dixon has apologized and hopes the people of Baltimore will focus on her love for the city’s future.
Another Democratic candidate, Thiru Vignarajah, dropped out of the race and endorsed Dixon, stating that everyone has stumbled but it’s how they respond that defines them. Bob Wallace, a Baltimore businessman, also remains a candidate in the primary. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore has not endorsed any candidate but has praised Scott’s efforts to improve public safety during their community walk in east Baltimore. Both Scott and Dixon grew up in Baltimore and served on City Council before running for mayor, with Dixon proposing a plan to require city employees to return to the office to help revitalize downtown and improve city government efficiency.
The 2024 Baltimore mayor’s race is a critical one for the city, as residents consider the candidates’ plans for public safety, housing revitalization, and economic development. The issues of corruption and past scandals loom large, with Dixon seeking redemption for her previous convictions and Scott aiming to continue the progress made in reducing crime rates. As the primary election approaches, Baltimoreans will have the opportunity to choose the candidate they believe will best lead the city and address its ongoing challenges.
