Anthony McCarthy, a prominent figure in Baltimore politics and media, passed away at age 57 after a struggle with kidney disease. Known for his roles as spokesperson for mayors Sheila Dixon, Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, and Catherine Pugh, McCarthy was a respected voice in Baltimore's political landscape.
His work also extended to serving as communications director for notable political figures such as the late Rep. Elijah Cummings, D-Md., and Rep. Kwesi Mfume, D-Md. According to a statement detailed by FOX Baltimore, Mfume remembered McCarthy as the "epitome of loyalty, principles, and hope. " Reflecting on McCarthy's legacy, former Baltimore City Councilman Carl Stokes shared, “Anthony was as close as a brother to me,” and further noted his capacity to win respect across the political spectrum.
Before his passing, McCarthy had opened up about his condition and the accompanying challenges, revealing in a 2023 interview with CBS News Baltimore his optimistic outlook despite the circumstances, saying, "I want to live, I want to walk, I want to laugh, I want to dance." This sentiment captured his will to fight the disease as he waited for a viable kidney transplant. WEAA radio, where McCarthy hosted "The Anthony McCarthy Show," will pay homage to his memory with a tribute set for 5 p.m. on Monday.
In addition to his public policy and media contributions, McCarthy was equally invested in community service. Among the organizations he supported was Tears of a Mother’s Cry, which helps mothers who have lost children to violence in the city. Nicolee Ambrose, a fellow board member, lamented McCarthy’s passing to The Baltimore Sun, calling him "a remarkable man with a brilliant mind." His work extended beyond policy and into the community, threading compassion into his public service.
