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Data centers can bring tremendous economic value through tax revenue and technology jobs, but they must not drive up electricity costs or strain the power grid for existing ratepayers. Any large facility should be largely self-sufficient in its power needs. Unfortunately, given Maryland’s current regulatory climate and energy policies, I’m skeptical that we’ll see many large data centers choose Maryland over neighboring states.
Marylanders are seeing skyrocketing utility costs because state energy policy has prioritized green energy mandates over affordability and reliability. Policies that force utilities to buy renewable credits from other states, participate in programs like RGGI, and premature retirements of reliable power plants have pushed prices higher. We need to encourage new in-state generation, reduce unnecessary mandates, and make sure ratepayers-not political agendas-are the priority in our energy policy.
Public transportation has a role in Maryland’s urban areas, but in rural regions like the Eastern Shore, people depend almost entirely on their vehicles. Maryland drivers pay the highest gas taxes and vehicle registration fees in the region, yet we still struggle to properly maintain our roads and highways. Before expanding new transit programs, we need to make sure the transportation taxes that our drivers pay are being used for their intended purpose to maintain the infrastructure we rely on.
Maryland’s budget problems are largely the result of excessive spending commitments made in recent years. The Blueprint for Education alone is projected to create $4 to $5 billion in structural deficits in the coming years. My top priorities are restoring fiscal responsibility, preventing further tax increases that drive residents out of the state, and ensuring that state spending is focused on core priorities rather than expanding government beyond what taxpayers can sustain.
Maryland benefits greatly from immigrants who come here legally and want to contribute to our communities and economy. It’s important not to confuse legal immigration with illegal immigration. I strongly support those who follow the legal process and are working to build a better future here, while also recognizing the importance of upholding the rule of law in our immigration system.
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I support responsible development of data centers in Maryland, particularly in rural communities where they can provide much-needed economic investment and increase local tax revenue. At the same time, we must address concerns about energy use, water supply, and land impact. Maryland should prioritize green data centers powered by renewable energy to protect our environment while creating jobs and supporting rural economies.
Rising utility costs in Maryland are driven by our reliance on imported electricity and a grid that can become overloaded during peak demand. We must invest in clean, in-state energy like offshore wind to reduce dependence on outside power. I will support clean renewable energy investments & legislation, advocate for rate relief, and work with local nonprofits to expand financial assistance and energy relief programs for Maryland families.
Public transportation should be improved across the state, especially on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Many residents cannot afford reliable transportation for medical appointments, work, and essential services, and ridesharing options are often unavailable in rural areas. Expanding nonprofit transportation programs and commuter bus routes through the Maryland Transit Administration—including service beyond Kent Island—would help rural communities access critical resources.
Education, transportation, and housing are my top budget priorities. I will continue fighting for public school construction so every Maryland student learns in clean, green, energy-efficient spaces. I will work to improve MTA line times and expand transportation service across Maryland’s Eastern Shore, which has long been overlooked. I will also push for greater investment in affordable housing in our high cost-of-living state.
Immigrants strengthen Maryland’s economy and communities. I will support access to essential services, legal assistance, and language resources so immigrant families can thrive. I will expand workforce training and small business support for immigrant entrepreneurs, strengthen educational opportunities for immigrant youth, and promote policies that build trust and ensure all residents feel safe, respected, and included.
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I support economic growth in Maryland, but not at the expense of its residents. Data center expansion must be conditioned on infrastructure readiness. In District 36, we already see pressure on energy costs, water resources, and land use. Our rural character is what makes our district unique and must be protected. Any new project should provide clear environmental and energy impact data, demonstrate grid capacity, and ensure local communities are not bearing disproportionate resource strain.
Utility costs in Maryland are rising due to growing demand, aging infrastructure, and delayed investment in grid modernization. In District 36, this directly strains families and small businesses. Maryland must strengthen in-state energy production and reduce reliance on imported supply that drives cost volatility. We also need coordinated planning and efficiency investments to protect families from rising costs and ensure long-term affordability and reliability.
Yes. Public transportation should be improved across Maryland, especially in District 36 and other rural areas where residents often travel long distances for work, healthcare, and education. Limited options increase costs and create real barriers to opportunity.
Improvements should focus on stronger regional connectivity between counties, not only urban expansion. Transportation planning should also be coordinated with housing and workforce needs so systems reflect how people actually live.
My top budget priorities are education, infrastructure, and healthcare access for District 36. I will fight for strong public schools and workforce pathways that connect youth to local opportunity, rural infrastructure like transportation and broadband that ensures communities can compete and access services, and affordable healthcare for rural providers and community-based care. I support stronger coordination across programs, reduced duplication, and smarter spending.
Immigrant communities are vital to District 36 and Maryland’s economy, contributing to agriculture, healthcare, and small businesses. I support policies that ensure dignity, fairness, and clear, transparent processes so residents can understand and navigate systems lawfully. That includes language access, education support, and workforce pathways. Strong coordination across schools, employers, and services helps immigrant families fully participate and strengthens rural communities.
