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In a significant announcement that officially kicks off the 2026 election cycle in Maryland, Anne Arundel County Councilmember Allison Pickard (D) has declared her candidacy for county executive. Pickard emphasized her skill set and work ethic as qualities that will enable her to make positive changes in Anne Arundel County. With County Executive Steuart Pittman (D) unable to seek a third term, Pickard is the first candidate to enter the race, but she may face competition from other Democrats, including her fellow council member Pete Smith, Annapolis Mayor Gavin Buckley, and James Kitchin, a top aide to Pittman.
Pickard’s early start in the campaign is aimed at building meaningful relationships with voters and raising the necessary funding for a countywide race, which could cost up to $1.5 million. The decision has already garnered support from various local elected officials, including U.S. Rep.-elect Sarah K. Elfreth and state Sen. Pamela Beidle.
Pickard’s priorities for the county include expanding affordable housing, improving transportation and infrastructure, enhancing resiliency, and modernizing land-use policies. Her announcement at the Moose Athletic Club highlighted her track record of finding innovative solutions and delivering for constituents. If elected, Pickard would be breaking long-standing trends in Anne Arundel County politics, becoming the first council member to hold the position of county executive.
The 2026 election in Anne Arundel County is expected to be a significant event among Maryland’s “Big Eight” jurisdictions. With open-seat races in other counties as well, the political landscape in Maryland is set for an intriguing and competitive cycle in the upcoming years.
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Photo credit marylandmatters.org
