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Maryland’s Legacy of Political Campaign Violence Traces Back to Lincoln – Capital Gazette


In 1972, Alabama Gov. George Wallace was shot at the Laurel Shopping Center during a campaign swing through Maryland before the primary election. The shooter, Arthur Bremer, critically injured Wallace, who spent the rest of his life in a wheelchair. The event, reminiscent of more recent attempts on political figures, highlighted the dangers of American politics. Bremer was convicted and spent 35 years in prison. Meanwhile, Wallace won the sympathy vote in Maryland despite his injuries.

This assassination attempt was not the only political crime in Maryland’s history. John Wilkes Booth, the assassin of President Abraham Lincoln, originated from Maryland. In 1962, a man was arrested in Baltimore for threatening to shoot President John F. Kennedy during a parade. However, Kennedy’s visit to the area went on without incident, and the man’s intentions were not further pursued.

The dangerous atmosphere surrounding political events was also evident when President Lyndon B. Johnson visited Baltimore during his 1964 campaign, with eggs being thrown at him during his arrival. Despite these incidents, Maryland remained a crucial state for political campaigns, with candidates continuing to visit and engage with voters.

Overall, the history of Maryland’s political landscape is marked by violent incidents and threats against political figures. Despite these challenges, politicians have continued to campaign and engage with voters in the state, demonstrating the resilience and determination of both candidates and citizens alike.

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