Senator Ben Cardin files for re-election against Chelsea Manning

Maryland’s sitting senator has filed for re-election ahead of a battle against Chelsea Manning.

Ben Cardin filed his papers this week, as the race to be the Democratic candidate in the state officially gets underway.

Transgender former Army private Manning launched her campaign earlier this year, releasing a YouTube campaign ad shortly after.

Senator Cardin

Manning could face an uphill struggle against the veteran politician, who is reported to have at least $2m ready for the campaign.

Last time he faced a primary challenge in 2012 he beat his opponent by 74% to 16%.

Manning has raised under $50,000 in her first fortnight, primarily from small online donations.

She has a staff currently of two, and says she wants to keep her team small throughout the campaign.

Chelsea Manning

Speaking to the Guardian after announcing her bid she said: “We know it’s a real fight ahead of us. We do want to win, but if we lose our principles then winning wouldn’t matter.”

Manning also says that she voted for her Democratic opponent twice in previous elections.