Who Is Mary Ann Lisanti? Meet The Maryland Delegate Accused Of Racist Language

From Minnesota Sen. Al Franken giving up his Senate seat over sexual assault allegations to U.S. Rep. Steve King’s comments about white supremacy, politicians have found themselves under an increasingly focused microscope. Local politicians haven’t been spared this scrutiny, either, as Mary Ann Lisanti can attest.

But who is Mary Ann Lisanti?

Lisanti is a Democratic delegate in Maryland who, allegedly, used a racial slur during an after-hours event at an Annapolis cigar bar in January. The 51-year-old is in her second term as a lawmaker in the Maryland House of Delegates, serves on the House Economic Matters Committee, and is a chair on the unemployment insurance subcommittee.

According to The Washington Post, she used a racially derogatory term to describe Prince George’s County in Maryland, which is 62 percent African American, while at the bar during an after-hours gathering. She has since apologized to several members of the House, claiming she didn’t fully remember the evening or what was said.

During an interview with the Washington Post about the alleged slur earlier this month, she said, “I’m sure I have... I’m sure everyone has used it. I’ve used the f-word. I used the Lord’s name in vain.” This prompted Sheree Sample-Hughes, a fellow delegate, to ask if she grew up in a household where that language was used regularly. Lisanti reportedly declined to give a direct answer.

Angela D. Alsobrooks, Prince George’s County Executive, also expressed disappointment in Lisanti’s supposed language, calling it “disturbing and offensive.” Alsobrooks also said, “I would love for her to come here and visit so I can show her the true Prince George’s County.”

On Tuesday, it was reported by The Washington Post that Lisanti has been "stripped of her leadership position and will undergo sensitivity training." Lisanti will no longer chair the Unemployment Insurance Subcommittee of the House Economic Matters committee, House Speaker Michael E. Busch confirmed in a statement.