2026 Judicial Candidates by Jurisdiction

Below is the master index of each jurisdiction. Each county will eventually have its own sub-page with full candidate profiles, pending filings:

Western Maryland

  • Garrett CountyNo candidates filed yet
  • Allegany CountyNo candidates filed yet
  • Washington CountyNo candidates filed yet
  • Frederick CountyNo candidates filed yet

Central Maryland

  • Carroll CountyNo candidates filed yet
  • Howard CountyNo candidates filed yet
  • Baltimore CountyRalph Sapia
  • Anne Arundel CountyGinina A. Jackson-Stevenson

Capital Region

  • Montgomery CountyJames J. Dietrich, Catherine H. McQueen, Marylin Pierre
  • Prince George’s CountyLaKeecia Allen, Scott M. Carrington, Ada Elizabeth Clark-Edwards, Stacey Cobb Smith, Althea Stewart Jones, Donnaka Varner Lewis, Michael Ray Pearson, Todd Steuart

Southern Maryland

  • Calvert CountyNo candidates filed yet
  • Charles CountyNo candidates filed yet
  • St. Mary’s CountyKevin R. Hill

Eastern Shore

  • Harford CountyNo candidates filed yet
  • Cecil CountyNo candidates filed yet
  • Kent CountyNo candidates filed yet
  • Queen Anne’s CountyNo candidates filed yet
  • Talbot CountyPhilip T. Cronan
  • Caroline CountyNo candidates filed yet
  • Dorchester CountyNo candidates filed yet
  • Wicomico CountyNo candidates filed yet
  • Worcester CountyNo candidates filed yet
  • Somerset CountyNo candidates filed yet

MDBayNews updates this page as new candidates file their campaign committees with the Maryland State Board of Elections or upon Governor appointment.


About Circuit Court Elections in Maryland

Maryland’s Circuit Court judges serve 15-year terms after appointment but must face the voters the next election cycle in what is usually a nonpartisan “judge retention” contest—or a contested race if challengers file.

Circuit Court judges oversee:

  • Divorce & child custody cases
  • Domestic violence protective orders
  • Felony criminal cases
  • Major civil suits
  • Juvenile & child welfare cases
  • Probate matters
  • Administrative appeals

These judges hold significant influence over Maryland families, public safety, and civil rights. MDBayNews covers these elections so voters can understand judicial records, qualifications, endorsements, and decisions affecting their communities.


News & Updates

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.

In Park Heights, the Preakness Has Always Been Nearby. The Question Is Whether It’s Ever Been For Them.

The Pimlico redevelopment in Park Heights, Maryland, aims to transform the racetrack’s relationship with its distressed community, promising benefits after years of broken promises. Historically, race day has harmed local businesses, leading to skepticism among residents. With a $400 million investment, stakeholders hope to create lasting positive changes, but challenges remain.

Trone Spending Machine: The Billionaire’s Bid to Buy His Way Back to Congress

David Trone has invested over $15 million of his personal fortune into his 2026 House campaign, demonstrating a spending rate exceeding his previous record in the 2024 Senate race. Despite this financial effort, he has gained minimal donor support, raising questions about the effectiveness of his self-funding approach in generating voter enthusiasm.