Two Mayoral Candidates Look To Knock Democrats Off The Throne

BALTIMORE, Md. (WJZ)-- Two candidates for Baltimore mayor set out to break the decades-long hold of Democrats on city hall. But, what are their chances of success?

Republican Alan Walden and Green Party candidate Joshua Harris face the Democratic favorite Catherine Pugh in the race for mayor. Both are appealing to what they sense is an electorate ready for change.

Longtime Baltimore resident and former radio news anchor Walden, and communications specialist Harris, have set their sights on breaking the Democrat stronghold on city hall.

Theodore McKeldin was the last Republican to take office back in 1963 -- it was the last time a Democratic nominee didn't win.

"The one-party rule, which we've had for almost half a century, is not a good idea. People get lazy, the job doesn't get done and we've been in this downward spiral for years," said Walden.

Joshua Harris says he's the underdog in the race. "I'm the little big guy, if you will," said Harris.

Both Harris and Walden say it was the Freddie Gray unrest that served as a catalyst for their decision to run.

"The Green Party is the party that is willing to put people first and the Party that is in the forefront of advocating for social justice, racial justice, environmental justice and economic justice," said Harris.

Both candidates are aware of the challenge ahead.

"It's obviously a major challenge. There's no way to avoid that issue," said Walden.  "But not an insurmountable one. The electorate is a funny thing. American voters are capable of making all kinds of decisions that are unexpected," he said.

Democratic voters outnumber Republicans ten-to-one. Voters start making their decision this week, and you'll see candidates out campaigning throughout the week. Early voting for Maryland starts Thursday.

Follow @CBSBaltimore on Twitter and like WJZ-TV | CBS Baltimore on Facebook