Former U.S. Sen. Benjamin Cardin Donates Political Papers to Johns Hopkins University

Former U.S. Senator Benjamin Cardin of Maryland has donated his extensive collection of political papers to Johns Hopkins University’s Sheridan Libraries and University Museums. This collection, encompassing nearly 60 years of Cardin's legislative career, includes 255 boxes of physical material and 2.8 terabytes of digital content, primarily focusing on his Senate tenure from 2007 to 2024.

Cardin's career was marked by advocacy in areas such as health care, environmental protection, and civil rights. His papers cover pivotal moments in U.S. politics, including the impeachment trials of Judge Walter Nixon and President Donald Trump, the ethics investigation of Newt Gingrich, and the COVID-19 pandemic response. The donation not only preserves a significant historical record but also serves as a resource for understanding the importance of civic engagement and the legislative process.

During a luncheon celebrating the donation, Cardin emphasized the value of making such historical materials accessible to foster a deeper understanding of civic duties among the public, especially young people. Johns Hopkins University's role in curating and providing access to these materials underscores the institution's commitment to education and historical preservation.