Armstead Jones, the director of the Baltimore City Board of Elections, died at 71. Congressman Kweisi Mfume shared his sorrows on social media Saturday evening, saying, "[Armstead Jones] was an old school friend and real soldier who loved his job and cherished his City. Rest in peace AJ, with God's grace and power," as reported by WMAR2 News. This news arrived shortly after Jones had announced his plan to retire from his long-held position.
The City of Baltimore government member confirmed to WJZ that Jones's death came just hours after his retirement announcement. Jones's history of service includes beginning his career in elections back in 1995 as a board member before moving up to become president of the Board of Elections in 2003 and then its director, a role he fulfilled for nearly two decades. His tenure saw the implementation of significant changes, like adjusting the election calendar and introducing more mail-in voting during the pandemic—a challenge for election leaders across the state.
"His contributions to the growth, knowledge and development of this staff and new board members will sustain many of us as we move forward in this progress," Scherod Barnes, President of the Baltimore City Board of Elections, stated, per the Baltimore Banner. Michael Summers, Chairman of the Maryland State Board of Elections, similarly lauded Jones as a fixture on the board after Jones's retirement was initially announced.
Health issues had caused Jones to take breaks from his duties, including being away during the preparation for the 2024 primary and hospitalization during the 2022 governor's election.
