County Commissioner in Commissioner District 1, Maryland

2026 Primary Election

• Caryn Abbott — County Commissioner in Commissioner District 1, Maryland

  Caryn Abbott is a Republican public servant currently serving as a County Commissioner for Worcester County, Maryland, representing District 1. Elected to the Board of County Commissioners in November 2022, she took office in December of that year. A retired emergency room nurse from Pocomoke City, Abbott also volunteers her nursing skills with the American Red Cross. In addition to her commission duties, she serves on the Worcester County Board of Health and the Tri-County Council for the Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland. She is the founder and president of Worcester Backs the Blue and belongs to the Pocomoke Chamber of Commerce.

• Laura Gladding Morrison — County Commissioner in Commissioner District 1, Maryland

  Laura Gladding Morrison is a Republican candidate for Worcester County Commissioner in District 1, Maryland. As a Pocomoke City resident, she is competing in the 2026 Republican primary election alongside three other candidates, including the incumbent. Professionally, Morrison currently serves as the Director of Agency Relations at Landmark Insurance & Financial Group, an independent insurance agency located in Princess Anne. She is married to her husband, Bruce, and has two children, Caitlin and Taylor. Morrison brings her private sector background to her bid for local elected office to serve the Eastern Shore community.

• Shaun W. Shockley — County Commissioner in Commissioner District 1, Maryland

  Shaun W. Shockley is a Republican candidate running for Worcester County Commissioner in District 1, Maryland. Born and raised in Salisbury, Shockley moved to Worcester County in 2001 and currently resides outside Snow Hill. Drawing on twenty-seven years of experience in the industry, he is the owner of Smith Septic Service in Snow Hill, a local business previously owned by his father-in-law. Shockley is bringing his professional expertise in water, sewer, and landfill management to his campaign for public office. He aims to ensure that the district receives equitable attention and focus from county leadership. Shockley is competing in the 2026 Republican primary election.

• Wayne A. Taylor — County Commissioner in Commissioner District 1, Maryland

  Wayne A. Taylor is a Republican candidate running for Worcester County Commissioner, representing District 1 in Maryland. A resident of Pocomoke City, Taylor is focused on serving his community and is competing in the 2026 Republican primary election. As a contender for the District 1 seat, he aims to bring his values and dedication to the county government. Taylor is actively engaging with voters across Worcester County to share his vision for the region's future. With the primary approaching, he stands as one of four Republican candidates vying for the commissioner position to represent the interests of his constituents in District 1.