I’ve had many thoughtful conversations with residents across Charles County about the kind of leadership our county needs. I entered the commissioner president’s race because I believe Charles County deserves clear direction, real results, safe communities, smart economic growth and a government that is transparent and accountable to the people it serves. Those beliefs have not changed.
I also believe I could have run a strong and effective campaign and earned meaningful support from voters across this county. However, after carefully assessing the candidate pool, I’ve concluded that my presence on the ballot could split votes between two candidates who have similar positions on many of the most consequential issues we face and who actually want to move Charles County forward.
That would open the door for a candidate who has already had 12 years in office and, in my view, has delivered far too little in terms of meaningful progress or actual results for this county. That is not an outcome I am willing to risk. For that reason, I have decided to withdraw from the race for commissioner president.
My decision is about responsibility. I will not risk helping extend more of the same ineffective leadership that has held Charles County back.
With the remaining candidates, voters now face a clear decision about the direction of our county’s future. Charles County must decide whether to continue on the unproductive path it has been on for the past decade, or demand the kind of leadership that brings fresh thinking, accountability and real progress.
I am deeply grateful to everyone who encouraged me, supported me and shared their ideas along the way. This may end this campaign, but it does not end my commitment to this county or to the belief that Charles County can — and must — do better.
