County Executive in Anne Arundel, Maryland

2026 Primary Election

• James Kitchin — County Executive in Anne Arundel, Maryland

  James Kitchin is a Democratic candidate for Anne Arundel County Executive. A lifelong county resident, he graduated from Arundel High School before earning a PhD in Public Policy from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. His doctoral research concentrated on urban policy, education, and immigration. Kitchin began his career as a high school history and government teacher. In 2017, he ran for the Anne Arundel County Council in District 7. Since 2018, he has served in County Executive Steuart Pittman's administration in several roles, including Community Engagement Officer, Director of Community Engagement and Constituent Services, and most recently as a Special Assistant to the County Executive.

• Kyle A. Nembhard — County Executive in Anne Arundel, Maryland

  Kyle A. Nembhard is a Democratic candidate for County Executive of Anne Arundel County, Maryland, in the 2026 primary election. A newcomer to politics, he currently works as a program manager for Amtrak. His campaign, registered as "Friends of Kyle Nembhard," positions him as one of several Democrats seeking the county's top leadership role. With a background in transportation management, Nembhard enters the race to lead Maryland's fifth-most populous county, offering a fresh perspective to voters. His candidacy marks his first foray into public office, presenting an alternative to established political figures in the race for the county's future.

• Allison M. Pickard — County Executive in Anne Arundel, Maryland

  Allison M. Pickard is a Democratic candidate for County Executive of Anne Arundel County. Since December 2018, she has served on the Anne Arundel County Council, representing the residents of District 2. Her experience in local governance began prior to this role, with her appointment to the Anne Arundel County Board of Education in 2015. Professionally, Pickard has an extensive background spanning over a decade in the field of senior housing and services. Her commitment to public service was established early in her career through two terms with AmeriCorps. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from the College of Charleston and a Master's Level Certificate in Non-Profit Management from Georgetown University.

• Pete Smith — County Executive in Anne Arundel, Maryland

  Pete Smith is a Democratic candidate for Anne Arundel County Executive, bringing extensive experience in public service, military leadership, and financial management. A 24-year veteran of the United States Marine Corps, he served 13 years on active duty and is currently an Intelligence Officer in the reserves. Professionally, Smith works as a comptroller for the Department of Defense. His political career began in 2012 when he was first elected to the Anne Arundel County Council for District 1. During his multiple terms, his colleagues elected him as both vice chair and chair. Smith has also served as the county's Military and Veterans Liaison and coordinates the Toys for Tots program for Anne Arundel County.

• Dave Crawford — County Executive in Anne Arundel, Maryland

  Dave Crawford is a Republican candidate seeking the office of Anne Arundel County Executive. A professional in the food service sales industry for over 40 years, he brings extensive private sector experience to his campaign. Crawford is also deeply involved in community service as a longtime volunteer firefighter, currently serving as the Chief of the Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company. This experience informs his focus on public safety. He has been a resident of Severna Park since 2012. His wife, Lori Crawford, is a retired special education teacher who worked within the Anne Arundel County public school system. Crawford has centered his platform on fiscal issues and public safety, positioning himself as a political outsider.