By Barry O’Connell | The Maryland Wire
Antonio Driver Rises While an Aging Senator Clings to Power
On Wednesday night, the Prince George’s County Democratic Central Committee hosted a glittering reception at National Harbor, ostensibly to welcome the new County Executive, Aisha Braveboy. The event featured cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, a silent auction, and a who’s who of local politics. But the real fireworks had nothing to do with the 4th of July, and everything to do with a political dynasty nearing collapse.
Because while guests gathered to toast Braveboy’s ascent, THE TWILIGHT YEARS OF SENATOR ANTHONY MUSE took center stage in the gossip circles just outside the spotlight. MUSE, FRAIL AND VISIBLY WEAKENED, shuffled through the event trying to project relevance, even as whispers swirled that HIS WIFE HAD TO RUSH HIM TO THE HOSPITAL the previous week.
Still, Muse told anyone who would listen that he was running, for Congress, no less.
Yes, Congress.
Imagine that: a man reportedly struggling to stand upright now claims he’s fit for the national stage. He had been floating the idea for weeks, letting rumors fly that he was eyeing the seat, maybe as a final act of redemption, or delusion. But the smoke evaporated fast when Antonio Driver formally announced his candidacy for Muse’s Senate seat in District 26, BELIEVING MUSE WAS STEPPING DOWN.
Instead, Muse pulled a fast one. Standing beneath the soft lighting of Arts’tination, drink in hand, he pivoted. He told stunned guests that he’d changed his mind and he’s now running for reelection to the Maryland Senate.
The announcement landed with a thud. Most attendees reacted with polite nods or awkward smiles, then quickly made their way over to shake Antonio Driver’s hand or offer him a quiet thumbs-up. In that moment, it became clear that DRIVER IS THE CHOICE OF DISTRICT 26, NOT MUSE.
Still, no one confronted Muse directly. Why? Because the one man visibly standing with Muse, defending him, even promoting him, was none other than Councilmember Edward Burroughs III.
That raised more than a few eyebrows.
Why is Edward Burroughs Defending a Diminished Muse?
The question on everyone’s lips: Why is Burroughs, a young political star with ambitions of his own, so invested in propping up a man in visible decline? Their alliance has all the markings of something more than political loyalty. Is it generational respect? Political debt? Or something more transactional?
Observers couldn’t help but notice that Burroughs was the only person in the room who wouldn’t even acknowledge Driver’s presence. That silence spoke volumes.
And it’s not like Burroughs comes without baggage. His own political ascent has been marked by controversy and accusations of impropriety. Could this be a case of one embattled politician trying to protect another? Or does Burroughs see Muse as a placeholder he can influence?
One veteran political operative summed it up bluntly:
> Edward’s backing Muse like he’s his ventriloquist dummy. But the dummy is falling apart and can’t sit up straight anymore.
The Changing o the Guard
The truth is, this event marked the beginning of the end for Anthony Muse. His clinging to power—despite age, illness, and diminishing support—has become almost tragic. Meanwhile, Antonio Driver’s entry into the race feels like a generational shift finally taking root.
Driver, who has long been admired for his energy and thoughtful leadership, had the quiet support of most people in the room. They just weren’t ready to say it out loud—yet.
The night may have been about welcoming Aisha Braveboy, but the real story is this: the sun is setting on Muse, and a new day is breaking in District 26. The voters are ready for someone who can walk, run, and lead with purpose andnot just shuffle around and tell stories of glories past.
And unless Burroughs plans to carry Muse into the State Senate chambers on his back, he might want to consider how long he can defend the indefensible.
Have thoughts or insider tips about the District 26 race? Email us at Barry.OConnell@Yahoo.com. We’re listening.