County Council in Councilmanic District 1, Maryland

2026 Primary Election

• Michelle García — County Council in Councilmanic District 1, Maryland

  Michelle García is a Democratic candidate for Prince George's County Council in District 1, Maryland. She currently serves as the chief of staff to the current District 1 councilmember, Tom Dernoga, a role she has held since 2018. Prior to this, she was the chief of staff for Delegate Joseline Peña-Melnyk. García also has experience as the first executive director of the Maryland Legislative Latino Caucus and served on the Prince George's County Democratic Central Committee from 2018 to 2025. Her campaign is focused on key issues such as affordable housing, support for volunteer fire departments, and ensuring equitable education.

• Martin Mitchell — County Council in Councilmanic District 1, Maryland

  Martin Mitchell is a Democratic candidate for Prince George's County Council in District 1. A native of Prince George's County and a Laurel resident, he is a graduate of Laurel High School and Bowie State University, holding a degree in Political Science. Mitchell previously served as an At-Large member of the Laurel City Council, where he was elected in 2021. Professionally, he works as a politics and public affairs consultant. His campaign focuses on community-centered solutions, including advocating for affordable housing, supporting working families, and investing in public safety. He is a father to twin sons.

• Darwin Romero — County Council in Councilmanic District 1, Maryland

  Darwin Romero, a 49-year-old contract manager from Montpelier, is a Democratic candidate for Prince George's County Council in District 1. A resident of Laurel, he has previously run for the Montgomery County Board of Education in 2020 and for Montgomery County Council in 2018. Romero's platform is centered on modernization, economic resilience, and community engagement. He has expressed his commitment to supporting small businesses, expanding educational opportunities, and ensuring residents are more connected with their local government. If elected, Romero would be the first immigrant to hold the District 1 seat.