State Senator District 19
DUTIES: Maryland State Senators enact laws, raise revenue through taxes and fees, and approve the spending of money by state agencies in an annual budget. They may propose amendments to the state Constitution for ratification by the voters and oversee the operation of all state government departments. The Senate confirms the Governor's appointment of judges and the heads of certain government agencies.TERM: Four years, no term limitSALARY: $56,636HOW ELECTED: Senators are elected district wide. The state has 47 election districts. Each district is represented by one senator.WEBSITE: https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Members/District
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Ben Kramer
(Dem)
DATA CENTERS: Data centers can bring some important economic benefits, but also have a negative impact on the power grid, water supply, and land use. Do you support the establishment of additional data centers in Maryland? Why or why not?
UTILITY COSTS: What do you see as the factors contributing to escalating utility costs in Maryland? How will you address them?
TRANSPORTATION: Should the availability of public transportation be improved across the state? Why or why not?
BUDGET: Maryland is required to balance the budget every year. What will be your three top budget priorities, and what programs will you fight for?
IMMIGRATION: Immigrants are an important part of our community and make significant contributions, including to Maryland's economy. What will you do to support immigrant communities in Maryland?
Campaign Phone
301-977-5141
Data centers can bring economic growth, jobs, and critical digital infrastructure. However, their significant energy and infrastructure demands must be borne by the companies that profit from them—not everyday ratepayers. Those who benefit from data centers should be responsible for covering the full costs of power, grid upgrades, environmental protections and related impacts to ensure residential and small business customers are not subsidizing private industry.
Escalating utility costs are driven by rising infrastructure needs, fuel volatility, and large new energy demands from facilities like data centers. While data centers support economic growth, their significant power use strains the grid. Costs can be reduced by requiring large users to pay for needed upgrades, improving energy efficiency, and investing in diversified, reliable energy sources that stabilize long-term prices.
Maryland can strengthen public transportation by expanding reliable, high-capacity options. This includes investing in Bus Rapid Transit, advancing the Red Line in Baltimore, and completing the Purple Line serving Montgomery County and Prince George’s County. Modern transit reduces congestion, connects workers to jobs, lowers emissions, and strengthens regional economic growth.
1. Residents with disabilities—fund services that support independence and community living.
2. Public schools—strong funding ensures opportunity, workforce readiness, and economic growth.
3. SNAP benefits—protect food assistance for vulnerable families, especially as potential federal cuts threaten basic nutrition and stability.
Maryland can support and protect immigrants by ensuring access to legal services, education, health care, and fair labor protections. Strengthening community trust in local institutions and preventing discrimination helps families live and work safely. These steps support economic stability, protect vulnerable workers, and strengthen communities across the state.
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