County Commissioner in Commissioner District 1, Maryland

2026 Primary Election

• Gilbert "BJ" Bowling — County Commissioner in Commissioner District 1, Maryland

  Gilbert "BJ" Bowling III is a Democratic candidate and current County Commissioner representing District 1 in Charles County, Maryland. A lifelong resident, Bowling lives in Dentsville with his wife, Jennifer, and two daughters. He has a strong background in public service, having enjoyed a 19-year career in public safety and serving as an 18-year union member on its Board of Directors. Deeply involved in the community, Bowling chaired both the United Way of Charles County and the Charles County Democratic Central Committee. He also operates a 5th-generation family farm that raises beef, serving as Vice-President of the local Farm Bureau.

• Dezmond A. Rosier — County Commissioner in Commissioner District 1, Maryland

  Dezmond A. Rosier is a Democratic candidate for Charles County Commissioner in District 1, Maryland. Born and raised on his family's farm in La Plata, he developed a deep respect for agricultural preservation. While attending Howard University, he served as Student Body President. A community organizer, Rosier founded Charles County Youth For Change and served as president of the local NAACP Youth Council. In 2021, he was appointed to the Maryland Democratic Central Committee. Previously an intern for Senator Chris Van Hollen, Rosier's campaign prioritizes smart growth, education, and public safety.

• Walton "Walt" Merchant — County Commissioner in Commissioner District 1, Maryland

  Walton "Walt" Merchant is a Republican candidate running for County Commissioner in District 1 of Charles County, Maryland. A resident of the Swan Point community in Issue, Merchant has been an active voice for local infrastructure improvements and environmental protection. He has pushed the county to address serious property damage from sinkholes and prevent pollution from entering the Potomac River due to failing drainage systems. Running unopposed in the primary, his campaign, backed by the Friends of Walt Merchant committee, emphasizes government accountability, safety, and defending the concerns of Charles County property owners.