County Council in Councilmanic District 3, Maryland

2026 Primary Election

• Christian Benford — County Council in Councilmanic District 3, Maryland

  Christian Benford, a Democratic candidate for Frederick County Council in District 3, is a community organizer and renter. A lifelong Frederick resident, he was raised by a single mother in a working-class household. Benford holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Baltimore and is a member of the National Forum for Black Public Administrators. He is running on a platform focused on making the county more affordable for working families and seniors. A local activist, Benford supports rent stabilization, improved public transportation, and accountability for data center development. He has also voiced his opposition to the 287(g) program.

• Natasha Valencia — County Council in Councilmanic District 3, Maryland

  Natasha Valencia is a Democratic candidate for County Council in Councilmanic District 3, Maryland. A lifelong Frederick resident, she is an entrepreneur and community advocate. Valencia is the co-founder of Visionary Solutions and previously owned a bakery. She is active in the community, supporting schools and local organizations. Valencia has been recognized with proclamations from the City of Frederick and Frederick County for her contributions. Her campaign focuses on smart development, quality education, small business support, and fostering inclusive community spaces.

• Tammie Baugher — County Council in Councilmanic District 3, Maryland

  I'm running for County Council District 3 in Frederick, I'm dedicated to Making A Difference. Not just for District 3 but all Districts in Frederick County. I'm concerned for the whole community. After 40 vears in Frederick County, I've seen the impact of rapid growth and identified pressing issues that require attention. Our priorities should be our children's education, public safety, and community well-being. We need to address overcrowding in schools, support our teachers and emergency responders, and maintain our infrastructure Affordable housing and traffic congestion require practical solutions. As your representative I will focus on improving road safety, supporting community initiatives, and advocating for policies that benefit our residents. I will work collaboratively to find solutions that benefit our community and support initiatives that make a positive impact. I'm very concerned on our property taxes. Just need to take a better look at budget & spending.

• Josh Bokee — County Council in Councilmanic District 3, Maryland

  Josh Bokee is a dedicated public servant with a history of civic engagement in Frederick County, Maryland. A former City of Frederick Alderman, he has a proven track record of local leadership. Bokee is the executive director of Connect and holds a Master's degree in urban studies and planning from the University of Maryland. He has been an active candidate for the Frederick County Board of Education, prioritizing safe and inclusive schools, advocating for resources to address school construction funding, and aiming to ensure all students have the tools to succeed. As a parent with children in the school system, he is a passionate advocate for public education.