ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Harry Dunn, a Capitol Police officer who defended the U.S. Capitol during the January 6, 2021, attack, has announced his candidacy for Congress. In a news release, Dunn declared his intention to run for the seat in Maryland’s 3rd District as a Democrat, following the decision of Rep. John Sarbanes not to seek reelection after serving nine terms.
Dunn, who gained national attention for sharing his harrowing experience of violence and racism during the Capitol attack, emphasized the need to defend democracy in his announcement. He expressed his belief that the forces behind the violent attack are still at work and sees his candidacy as a patriotic duty to defend the nation’s Capitol.
The Maryland 3rd District, which encompasses the Baltimore suburbs in Howard and Anne Arundel counties, is considered a stronghold for the Democratic Party. An analysis by Inside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzales rates the district as Solid Democratic, given the significant margins by which both Joe Biden and Sarbanes won in the area in recent elections.
Dunn’s decision to run for Congress comes after he was one of four officers who provided gripping firsthand accounts of the insurrection during a hearing of the House select committee established to investigate the January 6 attack. His testimony shed light on the brutal violence endured by law enforcement officers that day, including the racial slurs hurled at him by pro-Trump rioters.
In addition to his law enforcement career, Dunn has been vocal in advocating for accountability and justice in the aftermath of the Capitol attack. His actions include joining efforts to establish a 9/11-style commission to investigate the insurrection and releasing a book detailing his experience and push for accountability.
In recognition of his bravery and dedication, President Joe Biden awarded Dunn the Presidential Citizens Medal on January 6, 2023. Having resigned from the Capitol Police Department in December, Dunn now seeks to transition from his role as an officer to a public servant by running for Congress with a commitment to upholding democracy and the nation’s values.
Dunn’s entry into the political arena underscores the ongoing impact of the Capitol attack and the efforts of those directly affected to shape the nation’s future. As he launches his campaign, he aims to bring his unique perspective and dedication to serving the community to the forefront of Maryland politics.