Notes & Personnel
Quick reads, lateral moves, and news from around the Free State.
Question 3 is underwater, per a new Banner poll.** A statewide survey released Tuesday by the bipartisan Protect Maryland Votes coalition — conducted jointly by Democratic firm Lincoln Park Strategies and Republican Ragnar Research Partners among 600 likely voters Sept. 10–13 — finds 41% opposed to the redistricting constitutional amendment, just 28% in support, and 31% undecided. Republicans oppose it 60–28; independents oppose 42–28; Democrats split 35% yes, 32% no, 33% undecided. If it passes, Annapolis Democrats get a freer hand to draw a map aimed at ousting Rep. Andy Harris, the state’s lone congressional Republican. [Baltimore Banner](https://www.thebanner.com/politics-power/state-government/maryland-redistricting-poll-3H44RTFBYBA65FQXN2IPYRIH74/)
Gov. Wes Moore told reporters at the 55th annual Congressional Black Caucus Foundation legislative conference in Washington on Sept. 17 that Marylanders will “overwhelmingly” back Question 3 in November: “The people are excited they have the power again.” Moore was a panel speaker at the five-day conference, themed “Rooted, Ready and Rising,” which covered voting rights, AI, and federal layoffs hitting Maryland communities of color. [Dundalk Eagle]
https://www.dundalkeagle.com/news/gov-wes-moore-says-marylanders-will-check-yes-on-redistricting-ballot-question/article_d7f32a48-426d-4d00-8c98-99026d3c9c4f.htmlOcean City has hired Manis Canning & Associates as its new government-relations firm, ending its long relationship with Bruce Bereano. Council President Matt James announced the contract at the end of a Tuesday council work session. The town cut ties with Bereano last month after years of retaining the Annapolis dean — notably on the offshore wind fight. [OC Today Dispatch](https://www.octodaydispatch.com/news/oc-hires-new-lobbying-firm-to-represent-city/article_b58c161a-d632-4f44-a0ce-38f068ea6498.html)
Robert Williams has been appointed by the Office of the Governor to the Maryland Venture Fund Authority and the Governor’s Workforce Development Board for a four-year term running 2026–2030, he announced on LinkedIn. At MVFA he’ll help oversee Maryland Technology Development Corp. investments in high-growth companies; on the workforce board he’ll advise on employment policy alongside business, labor, education, and government leaders. Williams founded Elite Eight Strategies, advising on AI strategy and venture commercialization. [ExecutiveBiz]
https://www.executivebiz.com/articles/robert-williams-maryland-boardsThe 49th Annual J. Millard Tawes Crab and Clam Bake ran yesterday
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The New Guard: How Sakinda Skinner Redefined the Maryland Socialite
In Maryland, the old definition of a “socialite” once conjured images of horse farms in Baltimore County, historic row houses in Annapolis, and quiet inheritance. But power and prestige in the Free State have migrated, and no one embodies this shift quite like Sakinda Skinner.
Redefining the Room
Skinner represents a dynamic force in mid-Atlantic high society: highly educated, effortlessly stylish, and deeply anchored in civic influence. While her roots and political footprint are tied to Prince George’s County—long recognized as the premier hub of Black wealth, political ambition, and cultural gravity in the nation—her social orbit spans the entire state, from Annapolis strategy dinners to Washington, D.C. gala circuit boards.
She isn't merely attending the event; more often than not, she is either hosting it, advising the host, or shaping the policy discussed over dinner.
The Power Couple Dynamic & Family Life
Beyond the courtroom and campaign trail, Skinner embodies the modern ideal of full-spectrum success. Striking, poised, and impeccably presented, she balances a high-stakes legal career with marriage and motherhood—a combination that makes her a focal point at every gathering.
The Professional Prestige: As an attorney and former Associate County Attorney, her social status is backed by sharp intellect and rigorous legal credentials.
The Political Gravitas: Her run for the Democratic Central Committee cemented her role as an insider who understands how power moves across county lines.
The Modern Household: Anchored by family life, her personal narrative shifts the social column away from outdated tropes toward a portrayal of contemporary power, stability, and elegance.
A Regional Influence Beyond County Lines
While Prince George's County serves as her launchpad, Skinner’s reach underscores a broader truth about Maryland society today: the state's true influencers move seamlessly across jurisdictions.
"The modern Maryland socialite isn't sitting on the sidelines waiting for an invitation—she’s drafting the legislation, chairing the foundation, and raising the next generation."
Whether navigating state-level policy circles in Annapolis, participating in legal association galas in Montgomery County, or coordinating regional political coalitions, Skinner sits firmly at the intersection of substance and style—redefining what it means to lead, look, and live at the top of Maryland's social ledger.