Baltimore City Council Vice President Stephanie Rawlings Blake said she can win the presidency when Sheila Dixon becomes the next Baltimore mayor.
“I believe I now have the support of the majority of the council,” she told The Examiner.
The claim comes as at least one contender has dropped out. “I?m no longer in the running,” said Councilman Jack Young. “I?m supporting Blake.”
Councilman Robert Curran said he will support Blake if she backs his bill to outlaw smoking in city bars and restaurants. “She has expressed support for my bill, so I am inclined to support her.”
Councilwoman Helen Holton said she supports Blake because “I think being vice president helped her get some of the experience needed for a smooth transition.” Councilman Ed Reisinger echoed Holton, saying “She?s been on the council since 1995; she?s experienced and done a good job.”
Two council members rumored to be candidates conceded that Blake might have enough support, but had not yet pledged their votes.
“I believe she has enough support,” former Council President Mary Pat Clarke said. “She hasn?t asked me for my vote yet.”
Councilman Keiffer Mitchell has not committed either. “I haven?t decided. No one has approached me about my vote. But I think she has enough support to win it.”
According to the City Charter, if a candidate does not have a majority, Blake will automatically preside over meetings, but not as president.
Councilwoman Belinda Conaway said she is undecided. “Hopefully, the process will be inclusive, so that we can all move forward together,” she said.
