by Kate Shunney
The year’s midterm election cycle is underway in Maryland as candidates are filing to run for a variety of county, district and national offices on the ballot in 2026.
Those interested in running for elected office have until February 24 to file the required paperwork to be placed on the June 23 primary election ballot.
Washington County voters will select all five members of the Board of County Commissioners in the 2026 election. Members serve four-year terms.
According to the Board of Elections, the following incumbents have declared re-election campaigns to retain their Commission seats: Republicans John Barr, Jeffrey Cline and Randy Leatherman. Republicans Curtis Reigh, Charles Burkett, Dan Young and Kaden Snyder are also running for their party’s nominations to the general election ballot in the race. Democrats Patrick Kirby, Teri Pailen and Lara Shepherd have also filed as Commission candidates. Taj Smith has filed as an unaffiliated candidate in the commission race.
Republican John McElroy has filed as a candidate for County Treasurer.
Republicans Gina Cirincion and Adam Greivell are seeking the post of State’s Attorney.
Republican Kevin Tucker is running a re-election campaign as Clerk of the Circuit Court and Republican Lacy Flook is seeking the Register of Wills post in this year’s election.
Republicans Brain Albert and Chuckie Johnsons are seeking the Washington County Sheriff’s position.
At press time the only candidates for the Washington County Board of Education were Dr. Aitza Haddad Nunez and Robin Merchant-Spickler.
Republican Terry Baker is seeking another term in the Maryland House of Delegates representing district 1C. At press time there were no other candidates for that office.
Republican Mike McKay is seeking another term as State Senator representing the first legislative district.
County voters will also choose a member of the U.S. House of Representatives to represent the 6th Congressional District. Candidates at press time included incumbent Democrat April McClain Delaney, Democrat George Gluck, Democrat Daniel Krakower, Democrat Ethan Wechtaluk, Republican Chris Burnett and Republican Robin Flicker. Seeking the nomination for the Green Party ballot is Moshe Landman.
