Maryland General Assembly – District 36 (2026)

County/Region: Cecil, Kent, Queen Anne’s & Caroline Counties
House Configuration: Multi-member (3 Delegates)
Political Lean: Strong Republican
Status: Safe GOP

State Senate – District 36

Incumbent: Steve Hershey, Republican
Running Again (2026): Y

Candidates

Republican

Democrat

Key Issues in District 36

  • Agriculture and farming regulation
  • Chesapeake Bay environmental rules
  • Energy mandates
  • Rural broadband and infrastructure

What to Watch

District 36 remains one of the most reliably Republican districts in the state. The real contest, if any, will likely be in Republican primaries rather than in the general election.

House of Delegates – District 36

Three at-large seats.

Candidates

Republican

Democrat

Strong Republican advantage.

MDBayNews Analysis

District 36 represents core Eastern Shore conservatism — skeptical of Annapolis mandates and strongly protective of agricultural and rural interests.

Maryland Has a Horse Industry Plan. It Still Doesn’t Have a Preakness Strategy.

Maryland has introduced its first statewide Horse Industry Strategic Plan, aimed at unifying its equine sectors for growth, generating $2.9 billion and approximately 28,000 jobs. However, it overlooks critical challenges such as the competitive CDI-NYRA series, financial projections, and specific racing issues, leaving essential accountability gaps unaddressed.

Maryland on the Map: What Officials Finally Admitted to the General Assembly

On September 16, Maryland officials disclosed critical financial details regarding horse racing investments, revealing annual losses for the Maryland Jockey Club and an increased debt obligation of $97 million. They confirmed no plans for further state funding and clarified the connection between a competing series and the failed Preakness bid, raising accountability concerns.

Moore Administration Orders Two Dozen Agencies to Model 10% Budget Cuts as Deficit Deepens

Maryland faces a projected $3 billion budget gap for fiscal 2028, prompting state agencies to prepare for up to 10% budget cuts. Governor Wes Moore’s administration emphasizes fiscal discipline while evaluating both cuts and potential new taxes. Lawmakers are concerned about the growing deficit, which complicates the state’s financial outlook.

Maryland’s Jobs Are Coming Back. The State’s Own Choices Keep Getting in the Way.

In July, Maryland’s private sector added nearly 11,000 jobs, marking a strong economic recovery after significant federal job losses. The unemployment rate fell to 4.2 percent, outpacing national growth. However, state policies, including tax increases, have drawn criticism and raised concerns about Maryland’s fiscal health and business climate.

Maryland’s Digital Ad Tax Just Got Thrown Out. Here’s What Happens to the Money.

Maryland’s digital advertising tax has been deemed unconstitutional by the Tax Court, which ruled it violates the federal Internet Tax Freedom Act. Companies like Apple and Google successfully challenged the tax, leading to potential refunds totaling over $500 million. The state plans to appeal, leaving unresolved budget implications for Maryland.

Democrats Are Building a Farm Team. Maryland Republicans Have $24,000 and a Prayer.

Pete Buttigieg is endorsing Democratic candidates in Indiana, aiming to strengthen state legislative races that have been neglected. In contrast, Maryland Republicans struggle with financial disparities, raising only $267,362 compared to $2.9 million by Democrats. This financial gap limits their ability to compete effectively in upcoming elections.

How a $375 Million Plan Became a $715 Million Problem

Maryland’s horse racing redevelopment plan escalated from $375 million to over $715 million through five decisions made without public cost-benefit analyses. Key decisions included concentrating racing at a rebuilt Pimlico, abandoning Shamrock Farm, purchasing Laurel Park, and acquiring the Preakness IP, all while lacking transparency and accountability.

The First Lawsuit Went Dark. A Second One — Led by a Local GOP Official — Is Wide Open.

A Republican lawsuit challenging Maryland’s redistricting process has been sealed from public view, raising questions. In response, another group of Eastern Shore Republicans filed a separate, accessible lawsuit, addressing related issues and contesting both the ballot language and the constitutionality of the ballot measure, asserting a lack of transparency in the process.

What Maryland Didn’t Consider

The Preakness announcement led to a new broadcast deal and date but did not resolve sixteen existing issues—eight created by Maryland and eight inherited from the industry. Key problems include reduced betting handle on Sundays and competition with major events like the PGA Championship, requiring Maryland to address structural shortcomings for racing’s future.

Pimlico Has No Plan for the Other 364 Days

The new Pimlico Race Course, meant to be a year-round economic hub, currently supports only the Preakness Stakes, raising concerns about its long-term viability. Despite significant investments, no substantial programming or events are announced for the remaining 364 days, provoking skepticism among local residents and officials regarding its projected economic impact.

Republicans, D.C. Watchdog Group Sue to Keep Redistricting Amendment Off November Ballot

Maryland Republicans and a conservative group have filed a lawsuit to block HB 2100, a proposed constitutional amendment on congressional redistricting, claiming that it missed the state’s certification deadline. The amendment could enable Democrats to redraw congressional maps, potentially eliminating the state’s only GOP-held seat. The lawsuit addresses procedural violations rather than the amendment’s content.

What Moore Announced — And What Comes Next

Governor Wes Moore’s press conference outlined major updates for the Preakness Stakes, including a historic Sunday date and a broadcasting deal with NBC through 2032. While the announcements were substantial, concerns about governance, competition with new racing series, and the economic implications for Maryland’s $633 million investment remain unaddressed.

Day One: The Session Convenes, the Math Gets Real, and a Democrat Breaks Ranks

The Maryland General Assembly convened a special session to discuss SB2100, a constitutional amendment for redistricting, requiring a three-fifths vote for passage. Despite Republican opposition and procedural delays, Democratic leaders aim for a vote by Tuesday. The amendment could significantly impact future congressional maps and is part of broader political dynamics nationwide.

The GOP Says This Bill Proves Hypocrisy. The Bill Itself Tells a Messier Story.

The Maryland Republican Party criticized Democratic leadership for introducing House Bill 2101 during a redistricting-only special session, claiming it was hypocritical. The bill aims to withdraw a duplicate constitutional amendment on collective bargaining for state employees to prevent ballot confusion in the upcoming November election.

Republicans Won’t Boycott the Special Session. They’ll Just Talk About Everything Else.

Maryland Senate Minority Leader Steve Hershey confirmed that Senate Republicans will actively participate in the upcoming special session despite restrictions on bill drafting. He emphasized their commitment to discussing key issues like energy costs and taxes. The Democrats argue these topics will be addressed in the next session, showcasing differing priorities.

Seven Stops, Five States, Three Weeks: Where Wes Moore Has Been While Maryland Waits on Affordability

Maryland Governor Wes Moore has been actively campaigning across multiple states while facing criticism for limiting the upcoming legislative special session to redistricting, excluding affordability issues. His travels have provoked mixed reactions, with Republicans condemning his record on taxes and questioning the disconnect between his national message on affordability and state legislative actions.

Republicans Say They Warned Leadership — Then Got Shut Out Anyway

Maryland’s legislative leaders are limiting the agenda for the upcoming special session to focus solely on congressional redistricting. Republican leaders criticized this decision, emphasizing the need to address pressing issues like rising energy costs. The unusual restriction is seen as a departure from previous practices, raising concerns about transparency and priorities.

Maryland Sets Aug. 3-5 Special Session on Redistricting — But the Dates Conflict with the State’s Own Ballot Deadline

Maryland’s General Assembly is set for a special session from August 3-5 to discuss a constitutional amendment on congressional redistricting standards. However, the session’s timeline conflicts with the state’s deadline for certifying ballot questions for the November election, raising concerns about the proposal’s viability. Legislative details are pending.

One Foot Out the Door: Wes Moore’s Reelection Pitch Is a Presidential Audition

In September 2025, Maryland Governor Wes Moore pledges to serve a full term and dismisses a 2028 presidential run. However, his busy national media schedule raises doubts. Moore’s history of embellished claims, including military awards and academic credentials, undermines credibility while Marylanders face financial challenges stemming from his policies, prompting scrutiny as elections approach.

What Wes Moore Didn’t Say After Winning Maryland’s Primary

Governor Wes Moore, after winning the primary, focused on national issues like redistricting and building congressional support, neglecting pressing Maryland issues. He failed to address the Key Bridge contractor crisis, mounting state deficits, questionable energy bill claims, and discrepancies in his military record, leaving many Marylanders concerned about local governance.

The Firewall Fell Overnight

The Maryland Senate’s six-month redistricting blockade ended abruptly after primary elections reshaped the political landscape. Governor Wes Moore announced a special session for redistricting, citing emergency needs. The primary outcomes weakened Senate leadership, prompting both discussions on constitutional amendments and potential new maps. Republican leaders criticized the focus on redistricting over pressing economic issues.

Where Did All the Voters Go?

Dan Cox won the Republican gubernatorial primary but experienced a significant drop in votes, receiving only 78,290 compared to 153,423 in 2022. Both parties saw declines in turnout, but the Republican drop was concerning, with many disaffected voters potentially affecting the upcoming election. Cox must focus on Governor Moore’s record to mobilize these missing voters.

Six Figures, Still Struggling: Maryland Ranks Third in Nation for Eroding Middle-Class Purchasing Power

A recent analysis reveals that Maryland’s rising cost of living is driving residents away, with a $1.68 billion tax package failing to alleviate the issue. A household earning $100,000 is now considered lower-middle class. The state faces ongoing structural deficits and a significant housing shortage, complicating efforts to retain residents.

Maryland Ranks Among the Most Expensive States for Groceries — And a New Law Probably Won’t Fix That

Governor Wes Moore has signed the Protection from Predatory Pricing Act, making Maryland the first state to ban “surveillance pricing.” However, critics argue the law addresses a nonexistent issue, with grocery prices influenced more by inflation and high living costs. Loopholes in the legislation could hinder its effectiveness, sparking debate on its real impact.

Ferguson’s Chamber, Ferguson’s Rules

In Maryland’s Senate, Senate President Bill Ferguson exercises tight control over the legislative process, often sidelining both Republican initiatives and his own governor’s priorities. Key bills, including redistricting efforts, died without debate or votes, illustrating the challenges faced by the minority party in a heavily dominated Democratic chamber.

Maryland Senate Republicans Move to Roll Back Vehicle Registration Fee Hikes

Maryland Senate Republicans are proposing legislation to reverse recent increases in vehicle registration fees, which rose by 60-70%. Senate Minority Leader Steve Hershey argues that these hikes strain families and small businesses amidst rising living costs. The bill aims to alleviate financial burden while discussing necessary transportation funding. Its future in the Democratic-controlled legislature remains…

Symbolic Stand or Structural Shift? Moore Signs 287(g) Ban While ICE Remains in Maryland

Governor Wes Moore has signed a law banning Maryland counties from 287(g) agreements, which allowed local officers to enforce civil immigration laws. Critics, primarily Republicans, argue it undermines local control and public safety, while the administration claims it enhances constitutional policing. The shift may lead to less structured coordination with federal enforcement.

Myrick Blasts Moore’s State of the State as “Fabrication, Misdirection, and Blame”

Republican candidate John Myrick criticized Governor Wes Moore’s 2026 State of the State address, labeling it deceptive and evasive regarding key issues like rising energy costs and high taxes. Myrick argues the race should focus on Moore’s leadership failures and promises practical solutions for Maryland families. The electoral landscape is now defined by accountability.

Governor Moore’s 2026 State of the State: Big Words, Big Spending, But Too Little Real Reform

Governor Wes Moore’s fourth State of the State address emphasized “protect, deliver, and lead.” He celebrated Maryland’s achievements while addressing economic hardships, like high energy costs and housing affordability. Critics, including Republicans, argue that state policies contribute to these issues. Moore’s ambitious plans may face challenges translating rhetoric into tangible results for families.

Will He or Won’t He? Steve Hershey Weighs a Risky Run for Governor as the Clock Ticks

With Maryland’s gubernatorial filing deadline approaching, Republican candidate Steve Hershey remains undecided about running, despite being seen as the party’s strongest option. Hershey, currently the Senate Minority Leader, faces a dilemma: risk losing his safe Senate seat to challenge Democratic Gov. Wes Moore or maintain leadership while Republicans struggle statewide.

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