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
- Nivek Johnson
- John Queen
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
- Steve Arentz – Incumbent
- Jeff Ghrist – Incumbent
- Jay A. Jacobs – Incumbent
Democrat
- Nevin Crouse
- Michelle Ravert
- Crystal Woodward
Strong Republican advantage.
MDBayNews Analysis
District 36 represents core Eastern Shore conservatism — skeptical of Annapolis mandates and strongly protective of agricultural and rural interests.
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.
Maryland Republicans Lay Out 2026 Legislative Agenda: A Minority Party Betting on Affordability and Accountability
As the Maryland General Assembly starts its 2026 session on January 14, Republicans, led by Senate Minority Leader Steve Hershey and Minority Whip Justin Ready, aim to combat fiscal irresponsibility with a focus on affordability, public safety, and accountability. They emphasize no new taxes, scrutinize education spending, and advocate for enhanced utility policies amidst a…
Wes Moore’s Budget Backpedal: From Big Promises to a Bureaucratic Freeze
Maryland Governor Wes Moore has announced a hiring freeze and budget cuts due to a $2.8 billion deficit, highlighting the fiscal reality he initially ignored. This pivot closely mirrors prior GOP recommendations, raising questions about his leadership and accountability. Many view this as a reluctant acknowledgment of Republican warnings.