Candidates for Gaithersburg mayor and city council have been certified for November’s local election, according to the city.
The mayor and councilmembers each serve four-year terms. The terms for councilmembers are staggered. Mayor Jud Ashman as well as Councilmembers Lisa Henderson and Jim McNulty are up for re-election.
Gaithersburg residents who live within city limits can vote in the election on Tuesday, Nov. 4. Mail-in voting is also an option. Residents can use this map to see if their home falls within city limits.
Candidates were certified by the Gaithersburg Board of Supervisors of Elections.
Candidates for Mayor
Jud Ashman
Jud Ashman, who has been Mayor of Gaithersburg since 2014, is running for re-election.
“Gaithersburg is in great shape—but we all know challenges lie ahead. That’s why I’m running for re-election: to help us navigate what’s next with steady, proven leadership,” he stated on his campaign website.
“Under my leadership, Gaithersburg has become the highest-performing, most effective local government in Maryland. But I’m not done yet. My goal is to keep raising the bar.”
Note: Jud Ashman is a member of Montgomery Community Media’s Board of Directors.
Tiffany Kelly
Tiffany Kelly is a community activist and federal grants manager, according to her campaign website.
“We cannot build a thriving future while entire groups of people go without what they need today,” she states on the website.
“We say we care about racism, anti-immigrant rhetoric, antisemitism, LGBTQ+ hate, and disengagement in our community—but too many leaders stay silent. Too many voters support candidates who don’t take clear, public stances against injustice.”
Candidates for City Council
Lisa Henderson
Lisa Henderson, a county native who was born in Rockville and was elected in 2021, is running for re-election.
“If re-elected, I will continue to listen, lead, and work in partnership with residents to shape a future that reflects Gaithersburg’s values and promise,” she states on her campaign website. “My campaign remains Empowered By Community—and together, we’ll continue to make progress that matters.”
Jim McNulty
Jim McNulty, who was elected in 2021, is running for re-election.
“I’m proud of our work together these past four years, but there is still more to accomplish. With your support, we can continue Gaithersburg’s tradition of common sense, practical leadership,” he stated on his campaign website.
Chris Thoms
Chris Thoms is a lifelong Gaithersburg resident who graduated from Quince Orchard High School, according to his campaign website.
“I’m running for Gaithersburg City Council because I have seen too many friends move out of Gaithersburg because of a lack of affordable housing, inconvenient transportation, and for better job opportunities,” he stated on the website. “I believe in a future where our neighborhoods are safer, our local economy is stronger, and our city remains a vibrant, welcoming place for all generations.
Omodamola Williams
Omodamola Williams describes himself on his campaign website as “a father first, a neighbor second, and a community advocate overall.” He ran unsuccessfully for the position in 2023.
“Gaithersburg is a city with immense potential with much work to be done,” he stated on his campaign website. “Our working-class communities deserve better equitable access to economic opportunities, affordable housing, and safe neighborhoods. I am committed to addressing these disparities head-on and advocating for policies that every resident will benefit from.”
