Maryland, January 10, 2026
As the County Executive elections approach in Baltimore, Howard, and Anne Arundel Counties, a diverse range of candidates emerges amid political shifts driven by term limits. With significant fundraising efforts underway, candidates aim to enhance community services and economic growth. The primary elections, critical for shaping local governance, are set for June 23, while the general election will take place on November 3. Each candidate’s vision for local economic policies can significantly impact small businesses and community resilience.
Key Insights on County Executive Races in Baltimore, Howard, and Anne Arundel Counties
Overview of Upcoming Elections
Baltimore is gearing up for significant political changes as the County Executive election approaches on November 3, 2026. With the incumbent, Kathy Klausmeier, choosing not to run after her appointment in January 2025, a myriad of candidates has emerged to vie for the position. Meanwhile, Howard and Anne Arundel Counties are witnessing similar shifts, with their respective executives also term-limited. These elections are pivotal for local governments, driving future policies that affect community development and economic growth.
As these counties prepare for their executive races, local interest is piqued due to the opportunities that accompany community involvement and entrepreneurial spirit. The upcoming elections provide a platform for candidates to present their visions for fostering business innovation, enhancing public services, and promoting economic resilience. Navigating through each candidate’s platform can shed light on how they aim to minimize regulations and catalyze small-business growth, crucial for shaping the economic landscape in these regions.
Baltimore County Executive Race
Baltimore County’s executive election will have several candidates contending for leadership. The contenders include:
- Julian Jones: A County Councilmember representing the 4th district since 2014.
- Izzy Patoka: A County Councilmember from the 2nd district since 2018.
- Pat Young: A County Councilmember from the 1st district since 2022.
- Nick Stewart: An attorney and activist.
- Rob Daniels: An independent candidate and attorney.
- Patrick Dyer: A Republican businessman and 2006 nominee for House District 11.
- Kim Stansbury: A Republican businesswoman and 2022 candidate for County Executive.
Fundraising efforts are well underway as of January 2025, with notable amounts raised by several candidates: Julian Jones at $235,138, Izzy Patoka at $326,410, and Pat Young at $120,011. The primary election is set for June 23, 2026, providing voters a chance to engage with potential leaders who are dedicated to enhancing Baltimore County’s business environment.
Howard County Executive Race
In Howard County, the race unfolds following the term-limitation of County Executive Calvin Ball III. A number of Democratic candidates have emerged:
- Vanessa Atterbeary: State Delegate from the 13th district since 2015.
- Deb Jung: County Councilmember from the 4th district since 2018.
- Liz Walsh: County Councilmember from the 1st district since 2018.
- Bob Cockey: Restaurateur and 2022 Republican nominee for State Senate District 12.
The primary election is slated for June 23, 2026, and candidates are focusing on local economic issues, with emphasis on fostering a business-friendly climate. Jessica Feldmark initially announced her candidacy but later withdrew to focus on her re-election to the House of Delegates.
Anne Arundel County Executive Race
In Anne Arundel County, the current County Executive, Steuart Pittman, is also term-limited. The Democratic candidates competing for leadership include:
- Allison Pickard: Former Anne Arundel County Public Schools teacher and 2022 candidate for County Council District 5.
- Pete Smith: Former Mayor of Annapolis from 2017 to 2025.
- James Kitchin: Former member of the Anne Arundel County Board of Education.
The Republican candidate is Dave Crawford, a food service manager and volunteer firefighter. Fundraising as of January 2025 indicates significant efforts, with Allison Pickard raising $103,750, and Pete Smith at $131,525. The primary election is set for June 23, 2026, and the outcome will likely reflect the priorities of residents in promoting job creation and business investment.
Background Context
The role of a County Executive in Maryland is crucial as they act as the chief executive officer of the county, overseeing its budget and operations. The decisions made by the upcoming administrations directly influence the level of economic development, the efficiency of local governance, and the cultivation of small businesses. Each candidate’s vision can significantly shape the local economy and community wellbeing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the role of a County Executive in Maryland?
A County Executive in Maryland serves as the chief executive officer of the county, responsible for implementing policies, managing county operations, and overseeing the budget.
When are the County Executive elections in Baltimore, Howard, and Anne Arundel Counties?
The elections are scheduled for November 3, 2026, with primary elections on June 23, 2026.
Who are the declared candidates for the Baltimore County Executive race?
The declared candidates include Julian Jones, Izzy Patoka, Pat Young, Nick Stewart, Rob Daniels, Patrick Dyer, and Kim Stansbury.
What is the status of the Howard County Executive race?
Vanessa Atterbeary, Deb Jung, Liz Walsh, and Bob Cockey have declared their candidacies. Jessica Feldmark withdrew from the race in December 2025 to run for re-election to the House of Delegates.
Who is running for Anne Arundel County Executive?
Democratic candidates include Allison Pickard, Pete Smith, and James Kitchin. The Republican candidate is Dave Crawford.
Key Features of the County Executive Races
| County | Incumbent | Term Status | Declared Candidates | Primary Election Date | General Election Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baltimore | Kathy Klausmeier | Term-limited | Julian Jones, Izzy Patoka, Pat Young, Nick Stewart, Rob Daniels, Patrick Dyer, Kim Stansbury | June 23, 2026 | November 3, 2026 |
| Howard | Calvin Ball III | Term-limited | Vanessa Atterbeary, Deb Jung, Liz Walsh, Bob Cockey | June 23, 2026 | November 3, 2026 |
| Anne Arundel | Steuart Pittman | Term-limited | Allison Pickard, Pete Smith, James Kitchin, Dave Crawford | June 23, 2026 | November 3, 2026 |
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