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Sen. Benjamin L. Cardin is bowing out of a 2024 reelection race, ending a nearly 60-year career and opening up a U.S. Senate seat in deeply Democratic Maryland.
“I am proud of all I have done for Maryland,” said Mr. Cardin, 79. “I have given my heart and soul to our great state, and I thank Marylanders for trusting me as your representative for all these years.”
A Democrat from the city of Baltimore, Mr. Cardin was first elected to the Senate in 2006 when he defeated the state Lt. Governor Michael Steele, a Republican. Mr. Cardin easily secured reelection in 2012 and 2018.
Mr. Cardin has chaired the Senate Small Business Committee for the past two years. He said he hopes to use the panel over the next two years to help Maryland, despite not seeking reelection.
“I will continue to travel around the state, listening to Marylanders and responding to their needs,” he said. “My top priorities include continuing our progress for the Chesapeake Bay, helping the people of Baltimore City deal with the challenges they face, and permanently expanding opportunities for telehealth, mental and behavioral health.
