Harry Dunn: From Capitol Police to Congress

Standing Tall for Democracy

Harry Dunn, a former Capitol Police officer, is no stranger to standing out in a crowd. Standing at an impressive 6 feet, 7 inches, his commanding presence served him well during his 15 years on the force. Now, he’s ready to make his mark once again, this time in the political arena.

A National Profile

Thanks to his heroic actions during the Capitol attack on January 6, 2021, Dunn gained national recognition. He wrote a book detailing his harrowing experience that day, including facing racial slurs from rioters. He has also been outspoken in his criticism of Republicans who downplay the violence. However, the competition in Maryland’s 3rd District primary is fierce, with over a dozen other Democratic candidates vying for the open seat.

The Battle for Democracy

As candidates compete to replace retiring Rep. John Sarbanes in a solidly Democratic district, they face the challenge of capturing the attention of voters. Dunn hopes to rally support by emphasizing the existential threat posed by the GOP’s MAGA wing. Having personally fought against this danger on January 6, Dunn is uniquely qualified to continue the fight in Congress.

A Suburban Showdown

The 3rd District, located between Baltimore and D.C., is a suburban area populated by predominately wealthy, educated voters who have increasingly aligned with the Democratic party. These voters are motivated not only by their own party’s actions but also in reaction to the GOP’s shift towards authoritarianism during the Trump era.

Dunn’s Call to Action

In a video announcing his campaign, Dunn walks calmly through the recreated chaos of the Capitol attack. He highlights the hypocrisy of politicians who stood behind the police during the attack but later supported Trump. The video has garnered over 6.3 million views, demonstrating the impact of Dunn’s message.

From Protector to Politician

Running for office had been on Dunn’s mind for some time. However, when he saw the opportunity to step up after Sarbanes’ retirement announcement, he knew he couldn’t wait. Despite leaving the force before qualifying for his pension, Dunn felt a sense of urgency to combat the propagation of lies about the 2020 election.

A Gentle Giant

While Dunn may be known for his imposing stature, those who know him personally describe him as warm and caring. He has built friendships across party lines, playing in the annual charity football game that brings together Capitol Police and members of Congress. Even in the aftermath of the January 6 attack, Dunn’s thoughtfulness and compassion shone through.

Fighting for Justice

In his testimony before the House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6 Attack, Dunn shared the racial slurs he endured during the riot. He expressed his disbelief and anguish over the events that unfolded, asking, “Is this America?” His commitment to fighting back against the lies spread by politicians is unwavering.

A Comforting Presence

Those who have interacted with Dunn during the aftermath of the attack praise his ability to provide comfort and support. Gladys Sicknick, the mother of Brian Sicknick who tragically lost his life after responding to the attack, commended Dunn for his empathy and his ability to make people feel valued. Dunn’s presence is a stark contrast to many of the lawmakers she encountered who seemed indifferent.

The Road Ahead

With the primary just a few months away, Dunn faces the challenge of impressing voters with his empathy and determination. While he, like other candidates, does not currently live in the district, he has pledged to move if elected. The key to his campaign success lies in capturing the attention of fiercely anti-Trump Democrats nationwide.

Building a Movement

Dunn’s campaign strategy relies on leveraging the media attention he has received and fundraising from like-minded Democrats across the country. The primary race initially seemed like a local popularity contest, but Dunn’s entry has added a new dynamic to the race.

Read More of this Story at rollcall.com – 2024-02-07 20:57:10

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