May 2015

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Here are the major political activities involving U.S. Democrats in May 2015, based on available information:
Hillary Clinton's Presidential Campaign: On April 12, 2015, Hillary Clinton announced her candidacy for the Democratic nomination in the 2016 presidential election, marking her as the first major Democrat to declare. By May, her campaign was actively underway, focusing on building momentum and support.

Martin O'Malley's Presidential Campaign Announcement: On May 30, 2015, former Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley announced his run for the Democratic nomination in the 2016 presidential election, positioning himself as a progressive alternative.

Pennsylvania Supreme Court Election: In the 2015 Pennsylvania Supreme Court election, three Democratic candidates—Kevin M. Dougherty, David N. Wecht, and Christine Donohue—were elected, shifting the court's balance to five Democratic justices and two Republicans. This was a significant Democratic victory in a highly competitive and historically expensive race.

Sheldon Silver Indictment Developments: In January 2015, former Democratic New York Assemblyman Sheldon Silver was indicted on charges of bribery, extortion, and conspiracy. By April 2015, federal prosecutors added a new charge of engaging in monetary transactions involving crime proceeds, alleging Silver used his position to secure over $4 million in bribes and kickbacks. While the additional charge was filed in April, the case remained a significant issue for Democrats in New York throughout May, reflecting ongoing political fallout.

Baltimore Protests and Freddie Gray Case: From April 25 to May 3, 2015, protests in Baltimore, Maryland, erupted over the death of Freddie Gray in police custody. On May 1, Baltimore State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby, a Democrat, announced criminal charges against six police officers involved, ranging from assault to second-degree homicide. This was a high-profile action by a Democratic official addressing police accountability and racial justice, drawing national attention.

Kathleen Kane Legal Issues: On August 6, 2015, Pennsylvania Attorney General Kathleen Kane, the first woman and first Democrat elected to the role since 1980, was charged with five criminal offenses, including perjury and obstruction. While the charges were filed after May, the underlying investigation was active in May 2015, contributing to political challenges for Democrats in Pennsylvania.

These events highlight key Democratic political activities in May 2015, focusing on electoral campaigns, judicial elections, and high-profile legal and social justice developments.