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House of Delegates District 7B {_getChooseLabel(this.selections.length)}

DUTIES: Maryland State Delegates 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. TERM: Four years, no term limitSALARY: $55,636HOW ELECTED: Elected by residents of each of Maryland's 47 legislative districts. Voters in each district may vote for three delegates.WEBSITE: https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Members/District

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  • Candidate picture

    Lauren Arikan
    (Rep)

  • Candidate picture

    Candace Hart
    (Dem)

Biographical Information

DATA CENTERS: Data centers can bring some economic benefit, 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?

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Campaign Phone 4433562031
Campaign Instagram www.instagram.com/candyfordistrict7b/
Campaign Mailing Address 677 Towne Center Dr.
Joppa, MD 21085
I oppose the siting of hyperscale data centers in Harford County because they would place significant strain on our local grid, drive up utility costs for residents and alter the rural and community character that residents value, all while offering limited long-term local economic benefit. If such facilities are ever considered elsewhere in the state, they must meet strong environmental and water-use protections, provide transparent community benefits, and undergo rigorous oversight by MPSC.
Utility costs in Maryland are rising because of regional market failures, unchecked utility spending, and growing demand, especially from large corporate users. My plan is to protect ratepayers by working to fix the capacity market. The capacity auction is where the biggest price spikes happen. Stronger price caps to prevent extreme spikes, better demand forecasting, penalties for overpricing or manipulation. I will also work to expand energy assistance programs & invest in home weatherization.
Yes, public transportation should be improved, particularly in underserved urban and rural communities. Many Marylanders lack reliable access to work, healthcare, and education due to inadequate transit options. Targeted investments in underserved areas promote equity, expand economic opportunities, and create jobs. Smart, strategic improvements, not blanket expansion, ensure taxpayer dollars are spent where the need is greatest.
My top priorities are affordability, education, and public safety. Harford County families are stretched thin. I will fight for policies that give working families real relief. Every family deserves to be able to afford a decent life. We all deserve affordable necessities that include housing, healthcare, groceries and gas. Also, every child deserves a safe, well-funded school with supported teachers. Public safety concerns include effectiveness, trust and proactive measures.
Immigrants strengthen Maryland's economy and communities. I support the Community Trust Act, which ensures local law enforcement focuses on community safety rather than federal immigration enforcement. I oppose federal overreach that tears families apart through unjust deportation. I will fight to expand access to services, support pathways to legal status, and ensure all Marylanders residents are treated with dignity.