ELLICOTT CITY, Md. (MDBayNews) — A 20-year U.S. Navy veteran is entering the race for Maryland State Senate in District 9.
Ben Hightower announced Wednesday that he is seeking the Republican nomination for the District 9 seat, which represents portions of Howard and Montgomery counties. The district has become a key battleground area in recent election cycles as suburban voters weigh rising costs, education policy, and public safety concerns.
Hightower, who retired from the Navy after two decades of service, said his campaign will focus on affordability, school quality, public safety, and what he describes as government overreach in Annapolis.
“For two decades, I answered our nation’s call — from rendering life-saving medical care for our troops overseas as a Navy Hospital Corpsman to shaping policy at the Pentagon,” Hightower said in his announcement. “Now, I’m answering a new call: to serve our local community and fix what’s broken in Annapolis.”
Background and Experience
Hightower served as a Navy Hospital Corpsman and later worked in policy roles at the Pentagon. After retiring, he settled in Howard County and currently works at Johns Hopkins Health Plans, where he says he focuses on improving access to care and quality of life for underserved communities.
He describes himself as a father, veteran, and political outsider rather than a career politician.
“I’m not part of the establishment that created Maryland’s problems,” Hightower said. “Hard-working families deserve a better voice for what matters most.”
Campaign Priorities
Hightower outlined four central priorities:
- Make Maryland Affordable — Cut taxes and reduce regulatory burdens on families and businesses
- Support Our Schools — Empower parents, reward strong teachers, and limit political influence in classrooms
- Keep Communities Safe — Support law enforcement and first responders while addressing root causes of crime
- Protect Individual Liberty — Defend constitutional rights and push back against government overreach
District 9 voters have expressed growing concern in recent years over property taxes, state spending, school curriculum debates, and crime trends affecting suburban communities.
Political Landscape
The race is expected to draw attention as Maryland Republicans continue efforts to expand their footprint in suburban districts that have traditionally leaned Democratic but have shown signs of shifting competitiveness.
Hightower emphasized that his campaign is aimed at voters across party lines.
“This isn’t about party politics — it’s about bringing common-sense leadership back to Maryland,” he said. “Whether you’re a Republican, Democrat, or Independent who’s tired of the same old politics, this campaign is for you.”
For more information, Hightower’s campaign website is www.BenHightower.org. The campaign can be reached at Ben@BenHightower.org or (443) 979-3412.
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