🗳️ Howard County 2026: McLendon, Feldmark, and Handley Reshape the Field
Columbia, MD — September 18, 2025
The 2026 election cycle in Howard County is already revealing deep shifts in leadership, strategy, and civic priorities. From trauma-informed educators to seasoned state operatives, the field is filling with candidates who bring lived experience and institutional fluency to the table.
🎓 Regina McLendon Enters District 2 Council Race
Regina McLendon, principal of Oakland Mills Middle School, has declared her candidacy for County Council District 2. Known for her hands-on crisis response and deep ties to families affected by violence, McLendon is running on a platform of public safety, educational equity, and community healing.
> “I want to turn pain into policy,” she said, referencing years spent navigating hospital visits, shootings, and systemic neglect.
She joins Arinze Malcolm Ifekauche in the Democratic field, setting up a race defined by grassroots credibility and trauma-informed governance.
🏛️ Feldmark Launches County Executive Bid
Delegate Jessica Feldmark has entered the race for County Executive, aiming to succeed Calvin Ball, who is term-limited. Feldmark’s launch drew endorsements from five delegates and two state senators, including Guy Guzzone, chair of the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee.
Her platform includes school funding, housing affordability, environmental protection, and infrastructure investment. Councilmembers Deb Jung and Liz Walsh are rumored to be weighing their own bids, setting up a potential three-way contest among progressive insiders.
🧠 John Handley Targets House of Delegates (District 12A)
John Handley, a longtime aide to former Comptroller Peter Franchot, has declared for the Maryland House of Delegates in District 12A. Raised on the Eastern ShoreHandley moved to the Western Shore to serve in state government, where he held roles including Legislative Director and Deputy Chief of Staff.
Currently serving as Chief of Staff at a national nonprofit focused on refugee resettlement, Handley lives with his wife, Keertana. His campaign emphasizes education, economic growth, and public safety.
> “Inspired by the legacy and example of public servants who have shaped Howard County, I bring my record and passion for public service to continue the fight to build a safe, thriving and inclusive Howard County,” Handley said.
His candidacy marks a strategic handoff from Feldmark’s seat, reinforcing continuity in policy depth and institutional knowledge.
📋 Other Declared Candidates Across the County
| 🏛️ Race | 👤 Candidate | 🗒️ Notes |
|-------------|------------------|--------------|
| County Executive | Jessica Feldmark | Delegate, endorsed by key state leaders |
| District 12A Delegate | John Handley | Franchot alum, nonprofit exec, running for Feldmark’s former seat |
| District 2 (Council) | Regina McLendon | Principal, trauma-informed advocate |
| District 2 (Council) | Arinze Ifekauche | Community organizer, early filer |
| District 3 (Council) | Jessica Nichols | Education-focused candidate |
| District 4 (Council) | Shamieka Preston | Grassroots activist, filed August 5 |
| District 5 (Council) | Cat Carter | PTA Council President, tech entrepreneur |
| District 5 (Council) | Steven Bolen | Democratic challenger, filed June 3 |