David Marks and challenger Jay Payne trade accusations ahead of primary election

An attack mailer and a biting response were recently offered up to voters in Baltimore County’s 5th district ahead of Tuesday’s primary election.

The mailer, sent by a slate controlled by Councilman David Marks, says that his primary opponent, Jay Payne of Idlewylde and formerly of Fort Belvoir, Va., has “multiple criminal issues” including a drunk-driving incident.

“Yes, it’s true. I was pulled over 12 years ago for drinking and driving. I’m thankful I was pulled over. Luckily, I didn’t hurt anyone or myself. But I did disappoint my wife and family. I own this, and I’m not free of sin nor fault. I’m a human being were not perfect,” Payne says in op-ed in The Baltimore Post. “I am happy to say I’m still married to my wife and have two beautiful children.”

He then advises people to look up Marks’ judicial record, which lists cases related to his divorce proceedings.

While not specifically advocating a vote for Payne — who is Marks’ only opponent in the Republican primary — the Campaign for Liberty, a far-right group, has been attacking Marks on social media and in mailers. The group is opposed to Section 8 expansion, in favor of protecting Maryland from “illegals,” and against speed cameras.

Payne has missed many opportunities to debate Marks, but did attend an April forum in Idlewylde. Marks’ and Payne’s responses to audience questions can be seen here:

Marks’ mailer defends his Section 8 stand

The two Democrats in the race, Alex Foley and John Torsch, have done little to no campaigning. Foley’s latest campaign finance report indicates he took in one $40 donation between May 16 and June 10 and has a balance $860. Torsch’s campaign filed a document saying they intend to raise $1,000 or less.

Payne’s campaign reported that between Feb. 26 and June 10 he took in $1,310 in donations — including $500 from the candidate himself — and has $184 on hand. Filings show that Marks’ campaign took in $650 between May 16 and June 10 and that he has $290,000 on hand.

The primary election is Tuesday, June 26. Polls are open from 7am to 8pm. Details are here.