Seeking to succeed Cummings: Here’s who is running for the late congressman’s seat

The field is set for a crowded primary race to replace the late representative Elijah E. Cummings, an outspoken voice for civil rights and social justice during his two decades in Congress who fought for federal funding and programs to aid his beloved Baltimore.

A top elections officials said 24 Democrats and eight Republicans registered by Wednesday’s deadline for the Feb. 4 special election that, because of Democrats’ overwhelming majority in the district, will probably determine who serves the remainder of his term. At least five candidates appear to have the name recognition, fundraising potential and experience to be competitive, political analysts said.