Montgomery County Races

County Executive

Republican Primary Candidates

  • Shelly Skolnick
  • Esther Wells (NEW – Filed Feb. 23)

Democratic Primary Candidates

(Celeste Iroha has officially withdrawn and is no longer in the race.)

Latest Updates

Calling It Racist Doesn’t Make It Wrong

A political ad depicting Will Jawando sparked controversy, labeled by him as a racist caricature despite its creator, Black Republican Reardon Sullivan, denying the accusation and framing it as fiscal commentary. The ad’s subsequent condemnation by Evan Glass reflects a strategic response in a competitive election, emphasizing how racial narratives can overshadow financial concerns.

Montgomery County Executive Candidate Falls for Fake Campaign Finance Screenshot

Montgomery County Executive candidate Mithun Banerjee accused rival Andrew Friedson of paying $18,900 to journalist Glenn Fellman for negative press, based on a fabricated screenshot containing a typo. Verification of campaign finance records revealed no such payment exists, illustrating Banerjee’s unfounded allegations amid a competitive primary race.

Before the Endorsement: Jawando’s Senate Committee Gave $115,000 to Working Families Party PAC

Will Jawando’s Montgomery County Executive campaign is centered on grassroots principles, yet there’s controversy over his $115,000 donations to the Working Families Party PAC before their endorsement. While he claims to prioritize small donors through public financing, his significant campaign contributions raise questions about the authenticity of his message and potential influence on endorsements.

Jawando Taps Public Financing — and a Parallel Big-Money Committee

Will Jawando, a candidate for Montgomery County Executive, has raised over $400,000 through public financing but simultaneously operates a second committee fueled by large donations, raising questions about compliance with campaign finance rules. His actions suggest a conflicted approach, potentially undermining the Public Election Fund’s intent to reduce big-money influence.

Blind Date at the Ballot Box: Inside the Money Network Behind Montgomery County’s Judicial Elections

Judicial elections in Maryland, particularly at the Circuit Court level, are poorly understood by the public, leading to limited scrutiny and transparency. A network of judges, law firms, and political groups financially supports these elections, raising concerns about impartiality. Given the lack of public access to performance evaluations, maintaining trust in the judiciary becomes challenging.

Montgomery County’s Circuit Court Election Is a Blindfolded Vote

The Montgomery County Circuit Court election features five candidates, raising concerns about the transparency and accountability of judges who make significant decisions impacting families. Voters lack accessible information regarding judges’ past rulings and conduct, complicating their ability to make informed choices. The existing opaque system heightens distrust and undermines democratic principles.

Montgomery County’s 2026 Council Races Are a Democratic Power Struggle Over Taxes, Growth, and the County’s Direction

Montgomery County’s 2026 County Council elections are set to be highly contested, with all 11 seats on the ballot due to significant turnover. Key issues include governance style, fiscal discipline, and addressing local challenges like housing and public safety. Voters face a choice between progressive activism and more pragmatic approaches.

Sanctuary Over Sanity: Montgomery’s Executive Candidates Choose ICE Protests Over Public Safety

Montgomery County’s Democratic leadership has introduced the “ICE Out Act” to block private ICE detention facilities, prioritizing ideological signaling over public safety and federal cooperation. With rising crime and school decline, candidates for County Executive remain silent, raising concerns about leadership focused more on political theater than effective governance and community well-being.

Montgomery County’s 2026 Executive Race: Filing Deadline Shake-Up and a Complete Primary Overview

Montgomery County’s 2026 County Executive race is set for the June 23 primary, featuring a five-candidate Democratic slate and a two-candidate Republican contest. Incumbent Marc Elrich is term-limited. Key Democratic candidates include Andrew Friedson and Evan Glass, while Esther Wells enters as a conservative challenger, signaling an active political environment.

Montgomery County’s 2026 At-Large Council Race: A Crowded Primary That Will Decide the County’s Direction

The 2026 Montgomery County Council At-Large primary features 17 Democrats vying for four seats, with only incumbent Laurie-Anne Sayles running for reelection. Key issues include housing, fiscal management, public safety, and education. The outcome will significantly influence the county’s governance and reflect broader Democratic trends in Maryland.

MCPS Tells Local Politicians: Stay in Your Lane on Immigration Guidance

Montgomery County Public Schools Superintendent Thomas Taylor has instructed local officials to refrain from influencing school policy amidst heightened concerns over federal immigration enforcement. In a letter, he emphasized the importance of consistent guidance from the district, not conflicting advice from local politicians. This tension reflects broader political challenges and underscores the legality of school…

Ranked-Choice Voting: Democracy’s “Upgrade” That No One Asked For

Montgomery County Councilmember Evan Glass advocates for ranked-choice voting (RCV), claiming it enhances democracy by reflecting majority will. However, critics argue RCV complicates the voting process, risks eroding trust, and may not genuinely ensure majority support due to exhausted ballots. They warn Maryland should refrain from adopting this complex system without proven benefits.

GOP Candidates Rally Around “Innovation Corridor” Vision at Germantown Town Hall

At a town hall in Germantown, Md., nearly 70 Republican candidates discussed plans to revitalize Maryland’s economy, focusing on the I-270, I-70, and I-68 corridors. They emphasized tax relief, infrastructure expansion, and energy reliability, criticizing current Democratic leadership. The next town hall is scheduled for March 3.

MoCo at a Crossroads: Are Business-Friendly Neighbors Pulling Ahead?

Montgomery County, known for its economic strength in biotech and an educated workforce, faces scrutiny over its competitiveness. Council candidate Reardon Sullivan points to business departures, stagnant wage growth, and development slowdown. Critics argue that progressive regulations hinder growth, causing potential impacts on tax burdens and long-term stability. The upcoming elections will center on these…

Montgomery County PTAs Drift Into Immigration Activism as ICE Training Sparks Debate

A virtual training session for Montgomery County PTAs on organizing against ICE activity has sparked debate on the role of school organizations in political advocacy. Supporters view it as community protection, while critics fear it jeopardizes PTAs’ nonpartisan mission, raising concerns about governance and trust within diverse school communities amid heated immigration discussions.

Brenda M. Diaz Calls for Return of School Resource Officers in MCPS

Brenda M. Diaz, a candidate for the Montgomery County Board of Education, advocates for reinstating School Resource Officers (SROs) following a recent shooting incident. She highlights the need for transparency in safety policies, critiques progressive discipline reforms, and argues that SROs are essential for community safety rather than contributing to criminalization.

Montgomery County’s ICE Restrictions Test the Constitution — And Invite Federal Collision

The Montgomery County Council’s unanimous Trust Act aims to limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, challenging the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution. Critics argue that the legislation obstructs federal law and may invite litigation, ultimately costing taxpayers. The council’s actions reflect symbolic resistance rather than legal governance.

After Wootton, Montgomery County Must Restore — and Strengthen — Its School Resource Officer Program

After the shooting at Wootton High School, Montgomery County leaders are reconsidering the School Resource Officer program. Councilmember Dawn Luedtke has called for restoring full-time, on-site SROs — a significant shift in tone after years of scaled-back police presence. But restoration alone may not be enough. If the county is serious about deterrence and rapid…

Andrew Friedson Pushes Back on MCPS Boundary Study, Warns Against “Rubber-Stamp” School Relocation

Montgomery County Councilmember Andrew Friedson raised concerns regarding a proposed boundary study by Montgomery County Public Schools, claiming it lacks transparency and public trust. He criticized plans that could permanently relocate school communities or repurpose new schools, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive, transparent process to engage families and uphold commitments.

City Hall to County Council: Jud Ashman’s School Boundary Push Sparks Trust Concerns

Jud Ashman’s re-election as Gaithersburg’s mayor raised expectations of accountability, but he quickly shifted focus toward running for the Montgomery County Council. His controversial intervention in school boundary discussions, proposing “Modified Option H,” sparked concerns over whether he is prioritizing community interests or personal political ambitions, undermining public trust.

County Council Candidate Reardon Sullivan Blasts MCPS Plan to Close Wootton High School

The proposed closure of Wootton High School has turned into a significant issue in Montgomery County’s District 1 council race, with candidate Reardon Sullivan criticizing the plan. He argues that prioritizing ideological goals over local schools threatens community stability and educational outcomes, aligning his campaign with strong neighborhood-school advocacy.

Union-Backed Challenger Outraises Incumbent in Montgomery County Sheriff’s Race, Raising Questions About Independence

The Montgomery County sheriff’s race is gaining attention as a union-backed challenger surpasses the incumbent in fundraising, showcasing organized labor’s growing influence in law enforcement politics. This raises concerns over the potential politicization of the sheriff’s office and its implications for public safety and autonomy, highlighting key voter priorities.

Montgomery County’s 2026 Executive Race: A One-Party Primary With Big Stakes

Montgomery County’s 2026 elections will significantly shape its future, focusing on a crowded Democratic primary following the exit of term-limited incumbent Marc Elrich. Key candidates include Andrew Friedson, Evan Glass, Will Jawando, and Mithun Banerjee, each emphasizing different approaches to governance and socioeconomic issues. The Republican presence remains minimal.

Montgomery County GOP Builds Early Bench for 2026 in Heavily Democratic Terrain

As Maryland’s 2026 election approaches, the Montgomery County Republican Party is proactively recruiting candidates for federal, county, and local positions, aiming to address concerns like fiscal responsibility and public safety. With multiple candidates already filed, the GOP plans to challenge the Democratic majority in key races as the February filing deadline approaches.

Fundraising Divide Emerges in Montgomery County Executive Race

As Montgomery County approaches a crucial Democratic primary in June 2026, fundraising reports reveal a split field. Andrew Friedson leads with $1.05 million raised using traditional financing, while challengers Will Jawando and Evan Glass rely on public funds, advocating for grassroots support. This race highlights the ongoing debate about campaign financing in the county.

Open Seats and High Stakes: A Look at Maryland’s 2026 County Executive Races

The 2026 election cycle in Maryland will significantly impact local government, with eight counties electing new county executives due to open seats from term limits and retirements. Key races, particularly in larger, Democratic-leaning areas, will shape policy on budgets, land use, and education, driving higher voter turnout.

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