PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY — Senator JoAnne Benson, often called the “mama bear” of the Maryland Senate, is known for protecting Black communities across the state. People in areas with few Democratic voices—like Western Maryland or other parts of the state, often turn to her before their own local senator. She listens. And she acts.
From Hagerstown to the State Senate
Born in Roanoke, Virginia, in 1941, Benson’s family moved early to Hagerstown. She graduated from South Hagerstown High School before earning a BS in education at Bowie State in 1961. A decade later she earned an MA in curriculum instruction from Catholic University. After 40 years as a teacher and school administrator in Prince George’s County, she turned to politics in 1991 when voters elected her to the House of Delegates. In 2010 she challenged and beat Senator Nathaniel Exum, making her the first female senator for District 24 in 2011.
Why She Is Called the ‘Mama Bear’
Benson’s reputation goes far beyond her own district. Black residents in places like Washington County know she’s a senator who will pick up the phone, speak up in the Senate, or even confront colleagues when needed. She has stood up when no one else would.
She backed Tom Perez over Wes Moore early in Moore’s run. She took on the governor’s own people over the choice of the state police superintendent, challenging the pick of Colonel Butler amid concerns he had marginalized Black officers. That bold move cost her politically. But she did it because she believed it was right.
Benson has shown she will not bend to political pressure. If she disagrees she says so. She does not wait for permission. She is her own leader.
Power and Principle
In Annapolis she has been majority whip and held seats on key committees such as Budget and Taxation and Senate Rules. She votes her conscience even when the party steps in line. She serves as both an institutional leader and a conscience for those who feel unheard.
She is not widely known for media appearances. She is known for being there when people need her. That quiet strength wins trust.
Passing the Baton?
State Democratic leaders are nudging Benson to retire in favor of a younger, well-funded candidate. But Benson insists she is not ready to step aside. She is running full tilt today and intends to run again in 2026 if voters want her and they do. She is expected to win by bigger margins that 4 years ago.
She says it bluntly: she is not retiring to make room for ambition. She will leave when she feels her work is done.
The Voice of the Voiceless
At a time when many politicians speak only for their own districts or donors, Senator Benson stands out. She speaks for Black families in places where they have no other representative. She challenges the machine. She crosses caucus lines. She does what she believes is right.
That is why she is loved and why she is feared.She is the ‘mama bear’, ready to protect her cubs no matter the cost.
Senator JoAnne Benson is not a follower. She is a leader. And she is not done yet.