Harford County Democratic Central Committee Choose 10
DUTIES: The Democratic Central Committee is responsible for leading and organizing the day-to-day operations of the local Democratic Party. The Committee recommends candidates to the Governor to fill vacancies in state and local offices when a member of the party resigns or dies in office. County Central Committees work with the State Central Committee, which in turn works with the national party.TERM: Four years, no term limit.SALARY: None.HOW ELECTED: Democratic Central Committee members are elected countywide by registered party members. Voters may vote for the candidates of their choice. The winners will be determined by the greatest number of votes, while taking into consideration that those elected will be as equally divided by gender as possible.WEBSITE: Maryland Democratic Party
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Claudio Roberto Brown
(Dem)
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Claudio Roberto Brown (Male)
(Dem)
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Heather K. Cantos
(Dem)
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Heather K. Cantos (Female)
(Dem)
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Pamela Carter
(Dem)
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Pamela Carter (Female)
(Dem)
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Paula Casagrande
(Dem)
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Paula Casagrande (Female)
(Dem)
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Lawrence Del Prete
(Dem)
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Lawrence Del Prete (Male)
(Dem)
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Henry "Sandy" Gibbons
(Dem)
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Henry "Sandy" Gibbons (Male)
(Dem)
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Felicia M. Hopkins
(Dem)
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Felicia M. Hopkins (Female)
(Dem)
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Carissa Mattern (Female)
(Dem)
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Dani Paez
(Dem)
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Dani Paez (Female)
(Dem)
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Karim Shakur (Male)
(Dem)
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Bill Temmink (Male)
(Dem)
Biographical Information
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
Candidate has not yet responded.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
Candidate has not yet responded.
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
Candidate has not yet responded.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
Candidate has not yet responded.
Biographical Information
Campaign Mailing Address
4780 Water Park Dr Unit Q
Belcamp, MD 21017-1532
Belcamp, MD 21017-1532
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
Yes, I fully endorse special elections.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
My personal criteria for evaluating candidates will focus on their legislative understanding, their grasp of community needs, and their exhibition of transparent and ethical leadership.
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
With thirty years of leadership in the Marine Corps and an analytical career within the Department of Defense, I bring a mission-first perspective and a high level of strategic discipline to the Harford County Democratic Central Committee. My experience overseeing large-scale operations and personnel has taught me that effective governance requires both principled command and rigorous accountability. I am eager to apply this seasoned expertise to our local committee.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
To ensure that my appointment decisions best serve the community, I am committed to prioritizing transparency, merit, and diverse representation.
Biographical Information
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
Candidate has not yet responded.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
Candidate has not yet responded.
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
Candidate has not yet responded.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
Candidate has not yet responded.
Biographical Information
Campaign Website
http://heather4harford.my.canva.site/heather4harford
Campaign Phone
410-322-7039
Campaign Email
heather4harford@gmail.com
Campaign Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/HeatherforHarford
Campaign Instagram
www.instagram.com/heather4harford/
Campaign Mailing Address
741 Frans Dr
Abingdon, MD 21009-1446
Abingdon, MD 21009-1446
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
While special elections seem like the most fair process on the surface, the time and money spent would be detrimental in the long run, especially while the General Assembly is in session. We all deserve to have a representative present in Annapolis voting on key issues. Central Committee members are elected by the public, and voters should keep this in mind at the polls - who they choose will be their voice in the case of a vacancy.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
When voting, I look for candidates who are highly involved in the community, as they know the daily concerns and triumphs of their constituents. I would certainly keep that as a first criteria if choosing someone to fill a vacancy. I would also look at their time management and availability to be in Annapolis, their knowledge of legislation and the process for bills, and their motivation for applying for the vacancy.
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
I want to continue in service to the Democratic party after years of volunteering for and supporting Democratic candidates. I believe new leadership is needed on the Central Committee in order to better recruit and prepare quality candidates, and to continue supporting Democrats once they are elected to office. To move the county forward in the next four to eight years, we need to acknowledge current problems and get to work immediately making sure all Democrats have a voice.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
As one of the Democratic Central Committee's nominees for the County Council vacancy in District A, I have been a part of this process first hand. I would work to keep the process open and transparent, while encouraging community input and considering the candidate's service record - both career or volunteer work. My goal would be to maintain effective governance, not just political continuity.
Biographical Information
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
Candidate has not yet responded.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
Candidate has not yet responded.
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
Candidate has not yet responded.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
Candidate has not yet responded.
Biographical Information
Campaign Email
pcarterdem99@gmail.com
Campaign Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?fb_profile_edit_entry_point=%7B%22click_point%22%3A%22edit_profile_button%22%2C%22feature%22%3A%22profile_header%
Campaign Instagram
pcarterdem99
Campaign Mailing Address
P.O. Box 183
Havre De Grace, MD 21078-3164
Havre De Grace, MD 21078-3164
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
Voters should be able to choose their representative and use a temporary appointment if needed for the rest of the term.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
I would choose someone qualified and aligned with the vision and mission, has relevant experience, strong network skills to relate to the community, and a commitment to represent all constituents.
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
I want to serve on the Democratic Central Committee to strengthen the democratic party, support candidates, and ensure our party's decisions reflect the needs and values of the community, while helping to build a stronger more inclusive community.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
I would ensure decisions serve the community by prioritizing transparency, listening to the community, and selecting candidates based on their qualifications and experience, integrity, and commitment to representing everyone fairly.
Biographical Information
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
Candidate has not yet responded.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
Candidate has not yet responded.
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
Candidate has not yet responded.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
Candidate has not yet responded.
Biographical Information
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
Candidate has not yet responded.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
Candidate has not yet responded.
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
Candidate has not yet responded.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
Candidate has not yet responded.
Biographical Information
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
Candidate has not yet responded.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
Candidate has not yet responded.
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
Candidate has not yet responded.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
Candidate has not yet responded.
Biographical Information
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
Candidate has not yet responded.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
Candidate has not yet responded.
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
Candidate has not yet responded.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
Candidate has not yet responded.
Biographical Information
Campaign Phone
443-671-5469
Campaign Email
hemryforharford@gmail.com
Campaign Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/HenryForHarford
Campaign Mailing Address
2402 Papaya Rd
Edgewood, MD 21040
Edgewood, MD 21040
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
The current process allows the filling of vacancies by the Central Committees - elected bodies - without incurring the expense to the State and to the candidates themselves of holding special elections. The appointment process also enables a vacancy to be filled quickly, so that voters may have representation restored, rather than leaving a seat empty while awaiting the results of a special election.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
Having helped our Central Committee fill a local vacancy, I have three criteria I look at when selecting from a pool of applicants. First, will the applicant honor the intent of the voters who elected the departing legislator? Second, is the applicant able to fill the role? Third, will the applicant mount a strong campaign to defend the seat in the next election?
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
I have chaired the current Committee for the last four years, and am proud of the work this Committee has done - we restarted a Young Democrats chapter, began mobilizing students at Harford Community College, organized several neighborhoods, and worked with community partners to recruit candidates for all but one of Harford County’s elected positions. I want to continue to build a stronger Party for all of Harford County’s Democratic voters.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
To make sure the interests of the community are served, it is critical that the Committee understands those communities and their interests when considering applicants. Listening to community voices and leaders is essential at all times, but particularly when filling a vacancy. The Committee must then ensure a deep applicant pool by advertising the vacancy widely, deliberately recruiting applicants, and conducting a fair, robust, and transparent selection process.
Biographical Information
Campaign Phone
(410)671-5469
Campaign Email
henryforharford@gmail.com
Campaign Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/HenryForHarford
Campaign Mailing Address
2402 Papaya Rd
Edgewood, MD 21040
Edgewood, MD 21040
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
The current process allows the filling of vacancies by the Central Committees - elected bodies - without incurring the expense to the State and to the candidates themselves of holding special elections. The appointment process also enables a vacancy to be filled quickly, so that voters may have representation restored, rather than leaving a seat empty while awaiting the results of a special election.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
Having helped our Central Committee fill a local vacancy, I have three criteria I look at when selecting from a pool of applicants. First, will the applicant honor the intent of the voters who elected the departing legislator? Second, is the applicant able to fill the role? Third, will the applicant mount a strong campaign to defend the seat in the next election?
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
I have chaired the current Committee for the last four years, and am proud of the work this Committee has done - we restarted a Young Democrats chapter, began mobilizing students at Harford Community College, organized several neighborhoods, and worked with community partners to recruit candidates for all but one of Harford County’s elected positions. I want to continue to build a stronger Party for all of Harford County’s Democratic voters.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
To make sure the interests of the community are served, it is critical that the Committee understands those communities and their interests when considering applicants. Listening to community voices and leaders is essential at all times, but particularly when filling a vacancy. The Committee must then ensure a deep applicant pool by advertising the vacancy widely, deliberately recruiting applicants, and conducting a fair, robust, and transparent selection process.
Biographical Information
Campaign Phone
443-324-7580
Campaign Email
fmhopkins21@gmail.com
Campaign Instagram
https://linktr.ee/fmgrant
Campaign Mailing Address
209 Oak Leaf Cir Apt A
Abingdon, MD 21009-2799
Abingdon, MD 21009-2799
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
I support moving toward special elections to fill General Assembly vacancies because voters deserve a direct voice in who represents them. While Central Committees play an important role in maintaining continuity, appointments alone can limit transparency and community input.
That said, any shift to special elections must be practical; timing, cost, and voter turnout matter especially for short-term vacancies. A balanced approach could allow temporary appointments to ensure consistency.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
I look for integrity, readiness, and real community connection. The person should have a proven record of service and a commitment to people over politics. They must be ready to step in immediately, understand key issues, and work collaboratively. Most importantly, they should be present, engaged, and truly represent the voices of the community with accountability.
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
I want to serve on the Central Committee because I believe in building stronger, more connected communities through leadership that listens and shows up. My work has always been about bringing people to the table, creating opportunities, and making sure every voice matters. This is another way for me to serve with purpose, strengthen our party, and ensure our community is represented with integrity and accountability.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
I would prioritize transparency, community input, and qualifications. That means publicly sharing criteria, inviting feedback from residents and local leaders, and interviewing candidates who reflect the community’s diversity and needs. I would select individuals with a proven record of service, integrity, and collaboration, ensuring that the appointments truly represent and serve the people.
Biographical Information
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
Candidate has not yet responded.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
Candidate has not yet responded.
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
Candidate has not yet responded.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
Candidate has not yet responded.
Biographical Information
Campaign Website
http://matternformaryland.com
Campaign Phone
4434175404
Campaign Email
carissa@matternformaryland.com
Campaign Facebook
http://facebook.com/matternformaryland
Campaign Instagram
instagram.com/matternformaryland
Campaign Mailing Address
PO Box 90
Abingdon, MD 21009
Abingdon, MD 21009
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
Absolutely.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
This would depend on the type of vacancy and the committees the individual would serve on. I’d select someone who best fit the needs of the communities the vacant district served.
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
Currently, I am already doing the work that the CC does, but on a smaller scale. To be more efficient and positively impact more people, I want to bring my knowledge, expertise, work, and existing relationships to help make Harford County lives better.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
Communication with the communities is the key to selecting the best individual for a vacancy. It is more time consuming, but it’s an important step. We couldn’t know the wants/needs of every community, though we may want to. Therefore, having these conversations are important without and especially with vacancies.
Biographical Information
Campaign Website
http://daniforharford.com
Campaign Phone
4439665131
Campaign Email
DaniforHarco@gmail.com
Campaign Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/DaniPaezforHarCo
Campaign Instagram
www.instagram.com/daniforharco/
Campaign Mailing Address
PO Box 62
Edgewood, MD 21040
Edgewood, MD 21040
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
Yes, I support special elections to fill these vacancies. I believe that allowing voters to choose their representatives ensures a more democratic and transparent process. Special elections give the community a voice in selecting who will serve them during these important times.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
I believe the person chosen to fill a vacancy should exemplify integrity, dedication, and a strong commitment to serving the community.
Key criteria include:
Proven commitment to Democratic values and policies
Experience or background relevant to the needs of our district
The ability to effectively represent and advocate for constituents
Strong communication skills and a collaborative spirit
A track record of integrity, transparency, and ethical conduct
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
I believe that the organization designated to serve as the backbone of our county should be present & engaged in our community. I'm committed to increasing awareness & ensuring that information is accessible to all. I want to help promote & support our candidates, giving them the visibility they deserve.
I see the Central Committee as a unifying hub where all Democrats can come together to meet, discuss, and collaborate. I'm eager to contribute to building a stronger, more connected party.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
I will prioritize transparency, Inclusivity, & thorough evaluation. This includes consulting with community members and stakeholders, assessing candidates’ experience and commitment to our district’s needs, and ensuring they uphold our values and ethical standards. I believe in making decisions that reflect the diverse voices of our community & selecting individuals who are dedicated to representing our interests effectively. Regular communication and an open, honest process is essential.
Biographical Information
Campaign Website
http://daniforharford.com
Campaign Phone
443-966-5131
Campaign Email
DaniforHarco@gmail.com
Campaign Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/DaniPaezforHarCo
Campaign Instagram
DaniForHarco
Campaign Mailing Address
PO Box 62
Edgewood, MD 21040
Edgewood, MD 21040
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
I believe that holding special elections to fill vacancies in the General Assembly would be a fairer and more democratic approach, allowing constituents to choose their representatives rather than having appointments made solely by party Central Committees.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
To select a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly, I would prioritize criteria such as demonstrated commitment to public service, relevant experience and qualifications, a strong understanding of the community's needs, integrity and ethical conduct, and the ability to effectively represent constituents. Additionally, transparency in the selection process and ensuring diverse representation would be important considerations.
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
I want to serve on my party's Central Committee to actively contribute to shaping the party's policies, promote effective leadership, and represent the interests of my community. I am committed to working collaboratively to strengthen our party, address important issues, and ensure that our platform reflects the values and needs of our constituents. Serving on the Central Committee is an opportunity to make a positive impact and help guide our collective efforts toward a better future.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
To ensure that appointment decisions serve the best interests of the community, I would prioritize transparency, fairness, and inclusivity in the selection process. I would evaluate candidates based on their experience, qualifications, commitment to public service, and understanding of community needs. Consulting with community stakeholders and seeking diverse perspectives can also help identify the most suitable candidates. Ultimately, my goal would be to select individuals who demonstrate inte
Biographical Information
Campaign Email
shakurformaryland@gmail.com
Campaign Mailing Address
PO Box
Bel Air, MD 21014
Bel Air, MD 21014
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
I’m still learning this area, and I think it’s okay to admit that. What I do know is voters deserve a voice whenever possible. Special elections are very important, so the appointment process must be open and community-centered — not a backroom decision. I’m committed to getting that right and always willing to listen to those who know more than I do.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
I’d start by listening — to the community, not just insiders. Does this person truly understand who they’d represent? Can they win and hold the seat? Have they shown up before this opportunity? Do they reflect Harford County community values? I don’t think any one person should make that call alone, and I certainly wouldn’t.
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
I never saw myself as a political person. I’m a local resident who noticed something — too many people in our community have never been invited to the table. That moved me to run. I don’t have all the answers, but I’m willing to learn, put in the work, and make sure more voices help shape our party’s future here in Harford County.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
As a DCC member, my role is to vet and vote on appointments — so I’d push for an open, structured process: public notice of vacancies, clear criteria, and input from constituents in the affected district. I’d advocate for candidate forums where community members can weigh in before we vote. My vote will always reflect who’s best for the district — not who’s most convenient for the party.
Biographical Information
SPECIAL ELECTIONS: When a vacancy occurs in the General Assembly, the party Central Committee appoints someone to complete the rest of the term. Do you support special elections to fill these vacancies?
Candidate has not yet responded.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY VACANCIES: What criteria will you use to choose a person to fill a vacancy in the Maryland General Assembly?
Candidate has not yet responded.
MOTIVATION: Why do you want to serve on your party's Central Committee?
Candidate has not yet responded.
VACANCY SELECTIONS: How can you ensure that your appointment decisions serve the best interest of the community when filling vacant positions?
Candidate has not yet responded.