FAQ: Vanessa Atterbeary's Run for Howard County Executive

Who is Vanessa Atterbeary and what position is she running for?

Vanessa Atterbeary is the chair of the House Ways & Means Committee and a delegate who announced her candidacy for Howard County Executive, aiming to lead the government in Howard County where she grew up.

What are Atterbeary’s key campaign priorities?

She promised to continue her fight for school funding, affordable housing, police reform, and gun control, emphasizing building workforce housing and working for a better school system.

Why is this announcement significant in the Democratic primary?

Atterbeary is the fourth Democratic woman to run for county executive, which could lead to a tough primary among fellow lawmakers, with the winner likely becoming chief executive for 340,000 people.

Who are the other Democratic candidates mentioned for county executive?

Other Democratic candidates include Del. Jessica Feldmark of District 12A and two County Council members: Deb Jung of West Columbia and Liz Walsh of Ellicott City-Elkridge.

What notable supporters does Atterbeary have?

She was introduced by State Treasurer Dereck Davis, had House Speaker Adrienne Jones applauding on stage, and received endorsements from County Council member Opel Jones, Howard County State’s Attorney Rich Gibson, and Del. Chao Wu of District 9.

Who has endorsed Jessica Feldmark for county executive?

Feldmark was endorsed by much of the Democratic establishment including her state senator Guy Guzzone, former Howard County Executive Ken Ulman, former delegate Shane Pendergrass, and current Del. Pam Guzzone.

Where did Atterbeary make her announcement and who attended?

She announced at the Harriet Tubman Cultural Center in Columbia before a crowd of over 300 people, heavily African American, including current and former elected officials from outside Howard County like Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan Bates and former Prince George’s County Executive Rushern Baker.

What did Atterbeary say about her approach to county government?

She described county government as a family that may argue behind closed doors but must come together around a vision for the betterment of the county, emphasizing unity and preventing hate, division, or fear.

How does Atterbeary plan to leverage her Annapolis experience?

As county executive, she plans to go to Annapolis to ensure Howard County has the resources it needs, drawing on her familiarity with the state government to navigate challenges like government shutdowns, economic uncertainty, or political gridlock.