The Baltimore mayoral primary is intensifying as candidates vie for key endorsements. Former mayor Sheila Dixon has landed the backing of state Sen. Jill Carter, a Democrat, following an earlier endorsement from her former rival Thiru Vignarajah.

Carter explained her support for Dixon stems from their shared vision for Baltimore’s future. “Sheila and I are both daughters of this city who have hope for the people here,” Carter said. “After talking with her, I’m convinced she’ll listen to different voices and make thoughtful decisions.”

The endorsement is notable given Carter’s progressive criminal justice stances, which contrast with Dixon’s tough-on-crime platform focused on quality-of-life crimes. Political analyst John Dedie suggested the progressive backing a law-and-order candidate points to “tension with the Mayor.”

However, Carter said she and Dixon agree improving schools and community safety is key to overall public safety. They also share a belief in second chances, especially for Baltimore’s returning citizens.

“We have 7,000 to 9,000 people returning here yearly,” Carter stated. “It’s critical we provide education and job opportunities, because if people can’t find employment, we won’t have a safe society.”

Mayor Brandon Scott’s campaign criticized Carter aligning with forces aiming to “drag Baltimore back to mass arrests.” But Carter denied seeking a job in a potential Dixon administration, saying she only wants “continued conversations” on the city’s best interests.

Vignarajah cited “dysfunction” and Baltimore’s high homicide rate in endorsing Dixon as an agent of change. With Dixon and Scott polling neck-and-neck, every endorsement could prove pivotal as early voting began May 4 ahead of the May 14 primary.