By Michael Phillips | MDBayNews
The 2026 election cycle is shaping up to be one of the most consequential years for local government in Maryland in more than a decade. While statewide races for governor, Congress, and the General Assembly will dominate headlines, some of the most impactful contests will take place at the county level.
In 2026, eight of Maryland’s 23 counties will elect county executives, with several of those races featuring open seats due to term limits, retirements, or recent political transitions. The primary election is scheduled for June 23, 2026, with the general election on November 3, 2026.
County executives wield significant power over budgets, land use, public safety, education funding, and economic development—making these races especially important for voters.
Which Counties Are Voting in 2026?
Only eight Maryland counties operate under a county executive form of government. All eight will hold elections this cycle:
- Anne Arundel County
- Baltimore County
- Frederick County
- Harford County
- Howard County
- Montgomery County
- Prince George’s County
- Wicomico County
Several of these contests—particularly in larger, Democratic-leaning counties—are expected to be decided in the primary rather than the general election.
County-by-County Breakdown
Anne Arundel County — Open Seat
Incumbent Steuart Pittman is term-limited, creating one of the most competitive open races in the state. The county’s political balance makes both the Democratic primary and general election worth watching.
Notable candidates include:
- Allison Pickard (D)
- Pete Smith (D)
- Gavin Buckley (D)
- Dave Crawford (R)
Baltimore County — Open Seat
With appointed executive Kathy Klausmeier declining to run for a full term, Baltimore County is bracing for a crowded and expensive race.
Prominent Democratic contenders include:
- Julian Jones
- Izzy Patoka
- James Brochin
Republican and independent candidates have also entered or signaled interest, setting up one of the most closely watched local races of 2026.
Frederick County — Incumbent Running
Incumbent Jessica Fitzwater (D) is eligible for re-election after a narrow victory in 2022. While challengers have been limited so far, Frederick County remains competitive, particularly in higher-turnout election years.
Harford County — Incumbent Running
Republican Bob Cassilly is eligible for another term in a county that reliably leans Republican. The primary may be the main point of contention if challengers emerge.
Howard County — Open Seat
With Calvin Ball not seeking re-election, Howard County has drawn national attention for an all-women Democratic field.
Candidates include:
- Jessica Feldmark
- Deb Jung
- Liz Walsh
- Vanessa Atterbeary
The Democratic primary is expected to be decisive in this deep-blue county.
Montgomery County — Open Seat
Voters approved a term-limit referendum in 2024 barring Marc Elrich from seeking another consecutive term. The result is a packed Democratic primary in Maryland’s largest county.
Declared candidates include:
- Will Jawando
- Andrew Friedson
- Evan Glass
- Mithun Banerjee
Republican Reardon Sullivan has also entered the race.
Prince George’s County — Incumbent Running
Aisha Braveboy, elected in a 2025 special election, is eligible to seek a full term and enters as the clear favorite in a heavily Democratic jurisdiction.
Wicomico County — Incumbent Running
Wicomico County’s race remains lower-profile, with the incumbent eligible for re-election and few major announcements so far. That could change as filing deadlines approach.
Why These Races Matter
County executives shape local policy more directly than most state or federal officials. From zoning and housing to policing and school construction, these offices have outsized influence on residents’ daily lives. In 2026, the combination of open seats and a gubernatorial election year ensures higher turnout—and higher stakes.
Candidate filing remains open in many counties through late February 2026, and additional announcements are expected.
For official filings and updates, voters can consult the Maryland State Board of Elections or their local election boards.
MDBayNews will continue tracking candidate announcements, fundraising, and endorsements as the 2026 cycle unfolds.
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