Ortiz receives progressive endorsement

Adam Ortiz, the two-term Democratic mayor from Edmonston, has received the endorsement of the organization Progressive Cheverly in his bid to fill the open District 5 Prince George's County Council seat vacated by David Harrington, who replaced the deceased Gwendolyn Britt in the state Senate. 

According to their website, www.pipeline.com/~progchev/index.htm, Progressive Cheverly serves to promote "economic fairness, social justice, basic human rights, a sustainable environment, a tolerant society and world peace through a more informed political dialogue and active participation in civil society and the democratic political process." 

Terry Doyle, a spokesperson for the organization, told PolitickerMD.com that the group endorsed Ortiz because of his “environmental concerns” and “long-term concern about Prince George's Hospital.” 

Lack of funding has led to repeated concerns that the hospital may close, which the Cheverly-based organization has said would lead to a “healthcare crisis.” 

Doyle also said the organization was impressed that Ortiz was “not particularly connected with Jack Johnson,” the Democratic county executive of Prince George's County. 

Johnson has long-been accused of providing contracts and political favors to personal friends and political supporters. His use of government funds for personal expenses, like a business-class flight to Senegal in 2005, has also drawn controversy. 

“I have enjoyed working with Progressive Cheverly over the years,”Ortiz said in a statement. “It's genuine grassroots support, and that's what I am most proud of.” 

Doyle said the group would help with traditional get out the vote efforts, such as door-to-door campaigning and phone-banking activities.

Other candidates in the race include Andrea Fletcher Harrison, a longtime aide to Harrington, Adrion Howell, a Democratic strategist, and Theresa Dudley, a member of the Prince George’s County Education Association and teacher at Kenmoor Middle School.

A candidate’s forum was held in Cheverly last Thursday, and attended by 115 members of the community. Upon the conclusion of the forum, Doyle said Progressive Cheverly decided to endorse Ortiz because of his “strong commitment to progressive values and grassroots engagement with the community.” 

Aimee Olivo, co-chair of Progressive Cheverly, said in statement that Ortiz, “Will work for the people to reduce crime and promote transparency in government.”

Ortiz, who was elected Edmonston’s mayor in 2005, previously served as the Maryland Field Director on John Kerry’s 2004 presidential campaign. 

Progressive Cheverly also endorsed Donna Edwards in her successful 2008 congressional primary victory over Rep. Al Wynn.

A special primary election will be held on April 1 for District 5 residents of Prince George's County. Polls are open from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm.