Looking Ahead at the 2026 Primary Election, Challengers State Their Case

March 25, 2026

Following the February 24 candidate filing deadline in Prince George's County, Maryland, numerous competitive races have been established for the upcoming primary and general elections. Key contests include the State's Attorney position where incumbent Tara Jackson faces two Democratic challengers, and an exceptionally crowded race for the 5th Congressional District with over 20 candidates competing to replace the retiring Representative Steny Hoyer after his nearly 50-year tenure. The register of wills position has attracted a dozen candidates, while several county council races feature incumbents facing challengers focused on constituent services and economic development.

Who is affected

Prince George's County residents and voters
Incumbent Tara Jackson (State's Attorney), Councilmember Wanika Fisher, and Karen Piper Mitchell (State's Attorney candidates)
Outgoing Rep. Steny Hoyer and over 20 candidates for his 5th Congressional District seat, including former County Executive Rushern Baker
A dozen register of wills candidates including Dr. Antwan Brown, Belinda Queen Cunningham, Januari McKay, Jocelyn Route, and Linda Thornton-Thomas
Del. Tiffany Alston and entrepreneur Kevin Ford Jr. (state Senate candidates)
Unchallenged Councilmembers Eric Olson, Krystal Oriadha, and Edward Burroughs III
County executive candidate Greg Holmes
Sherman Hardy and eight other candidates for District 9
Councilmember Sydney Harrison (running for at-large seat)
Bishop Joel Peebles, Sr. and three other candidates challenging Councilmember Danielle Hunter in District 6
Cereta Lee (current register of wills)
Sen. Joanne Benson (retiring)

What action is being taken

Candidates are campaigning for various positions following the February 24 filing deadline
Greg Holmes is focusing his campaign on leadership, accountability, and economic development
Sherman Hardy is prioritizing transparency during his campaign
Fisher held a January fundraiser in partnership with Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott
Councilmember Sydney Harrison was doing humanitarian work in Uganda (when conflict escalated)

Why it matters

This election is described as pivotal for Prince George's County's future, particularly regarding development decisions. The races will determine leadership across multiple levels of government, from the State's Attorney office to Congressional representation to county executive and council positions. With key issues including public safety, housing affordability, employment, and economic development at stake, the election outcomes will significantly impact how the county addresses budget deficits, attracts businesses, and serves its residents. The retirement of long-serving officials like Rep. Steny Hoyer (nearly 50 years) and Sen. Joanne Benson (decades in office) represents a significant generational shift in leadership.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer