Maryland voters head to the polls Tuesday for their final opportunity to vote in person in the 2026 primary election, helping shape races that will determine the state’s political direction for years to come.
From a competitive race to lead Montgomery County to closely watched congressional contests, several key elections and issues are drawing attention across the state.
- Who will lead Montgomery County?
One of the most closely watched local races is the Democratic primary for Montgomery County Executive. With term limits preventing current County Executive Marc Elrich from seeking another term, voters will choose their candidate including county council members Andrew Friedson, Evan Glass and Will Jawando. Mithun Banerjee, Esther Wells, Shelley Skolnick and Peter Rocky James are also on the ballot.
The campaign has largely focused on housing affordability, economic development, transportation and how to manage the county’s budget while continuing to fund schools and public services.
To see the candidates’ full statements, visit here.
2. The future direction of Montgomery County Council
Voters will also decide several County Council races that could influence housing policy, development, transportation and school funding for years to come. Candidates have debated how to address the county’s housing shortage, support economic growth and improve transit options while maintaining neighborhood character.
With multiple open seats and new leadership expected, the council elected this year could have a significant impact on future development decisions throughout the county.
- Board of Education elections and the future of Montgomery County Public Schools
Several Board of Education seats are on the ballot, giving voters a direct voice in the future of Montgomery County Public Schools. Issues including academic performance, budget oversight, teacher retention, school safety and accountability have emerged as major topics throughout the campaign.
The election comes at a time when parents and educators continue to debate how best to address learning outcomes and growing budget pressures within Maryland’s largest school system.
Watch the full episode of The Pulse below:
- Congressional primaries with national implications
Several congressional races across Maryland are attracting attention, including contests that could help determine the state’s representation in Washington.
While Maryland remains a strongly Democratic state, primary elections often determine who will ultimately represent many districts in Congress.
The 2026 Maryland congressional races involve discussions on various policy issues important to the state. Candidates from both parties are addressing concerns about the economy, including the cost of living, property taxes, and utility rates.
- Growth, housing and affordability
Beyond individual races, one issue connects many campaigns across Maryland: how to manage growth while keeping communities affordable.
Candidates at the local and state levels have debated housing construction, transportation investments, school capacity and economic development. In Montgomery County especially, voters will be choosing between competing visions for addressing rising housing costs and accommodating future growth.
Election Day information
Maryland’s primary election is Tuesday, June 23. Polls opened at 7 a.m. and will remain open until 8 p.m. Voters can cast ballots at their assigned polling place, and mail-in ballots must be postmarked or placed in an official drop box by 8 p.m. Tuesday.
“Marylanders can feel safe going to the primary election on June 23rd. Early voting starts tomorrow, so, you know, go out and vote.” said Jared DeMarinis, Maryland State Administrator of Elections, in a video message ahead of the 2026 primary.
The outcomes of these races will help determine not only who appears on the November ballot, but also the direction of state and local government for years to come.
Montgomery County voters cast ballots for County Executive, County Council, Board of Education and other local and state offices, helping determine which candidates advance to the November general election.
Want to know more about who’s running/who ran for office in Montgomery County? Watch our Candidate Statements online. For in-depth insights, watch our Election Special here.
Follow MCM News throughout Primary Election Day for updates results and analysis affecting Montgomery County.
