Del. Feldmark Enters Howard County Executive Race with Service-Driven Vision
By Barry O’Connell Special to Everybody’s Maryland Politics
COLUMBIA; Delegate Jessica Feldmark officially announced her candidacy for Howard County Executive on Tuesday, launching her campaign at Blandair Park before a crowd of more than 150 supporters. With County Executive Calvin Ball term-limited, Feldmark becomes the first major Democratic name to step forward.
Feldmark brings nearly 30 years of experience in public service, much of it rooted in Howard County. She previously served as chief of staff to County Executive Ken Ulman, then spent eight years as administrator to the Howard County Council. Since 2019, she has represented District 12A in the Maryland House of Delegates.
Speaking at the rally, Feldmark emphasized her long-standing ties to the community and her deep commitment to service. She spoke about her upbringing in a family shaped by public service, with a school nurse mother and a father who worked as a federal hydrologist. Her childhood, she said, taught her the value of organizing, activism, and standing up for others.
Feldmark laid out her priorities for the county’s future, including full funding for public schools, addressing affordable housing shortages, environmental protections, infrastructure maintenance, public safety, and local economic growth. She said she is committed to running a campaign that is inclusive and focused on real results for working families.
Among those showing early support was Senator Guy Guzzone, one of Howard County’s most influential elected officials, who praised Feldmark’s experience and dedication, calling her a leader with both heart and ability.
Feldmark enters a race that is expected to draw more candidates in the coming months. County Councilmember Deb Jung has already announced her candidacy, and Councilmember Liz Walsh is rumored to be considering a run. With no Republican challengers currently declared, the Democratic primary is likely to determine the next county executive.
Campaign finance reports show Feldmark had raised more than $160,000 as of the beginning of the year, giving her a strong start and a sign of solid grassroots and institutional support.
As the campaign gets underway, observers expect the race to center around who can best manage growth, housing, and school funding in one of Maryland’s fastest-changing counties. With her mix of legislative and executive branch experience, Feldmark is positioning herself as the steady hand ready to take the helm
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