County Council in Councilmanic District 4, Maryland

2026 Primary Election

• Linfeng Chen — County Council in Councilmanic District 4, Maryland

  Dr. Linfeng Chen, a Democratic candidate for Howard County Council in District 4, is a structural engineer with a Ph.D. in Applied Mechanics. He has resided in Howard County for over 15 years and is a parent of three children in the public school system. Currently serving as the Vice Chair of the Howard County Board of Education, Chen is a strong advocate for quality education, public safety, and community support. His extensive volunteer work includes serving on various school system committees, mentoring students, and involvement in youth organizations and environmental initiatives. He is also a founding member of the Chinese American Parent Association of Howard County.

• Regina Clay — County Council in Councilmanic District 4, Maryland

  Regina Clay is a Democratic candidate for Howard County Council in District 4. A lifelong resident of the district, she brings nearly 30 years of leadership experience across government, nonprofit, and corporate sectors. Clay is the CEO of her own consulting firm, which focuses on public affairs and civic engagement. Previously, she served as the Howard County District Manager for the late Congressman Elijah E. Cummings and as Manager of External Affairs at CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield. She holds a Master of Divinity from Howard University and a Bachelor's in Communications from the University of Virginia. Her campaign focuses on inclusive growth and accountable governance.

• Janssen Evelyn — County Council in Councilmanic District 4, Maryland

  Janssen Evelyn is a Democratic candidate for Howard County Council in Councilmanic District 4. A licensed attorney, he has over a decade of experience in local government, including serving as Assistant Chief Administrative Officer for Howard County and as the first Executive Director of the Anne Arundel County Office of Police Accountability. Evelyn is also the president of the Howard County Conservancy. His campaign focuses on strengthening schools, ensuring safe communities, and promoting attainable housing and economic opportunities for all residents. He is a graduate of Saint Mary's College of Maryland and Washington & Lee School of Law.

• Shamieka Preston — County Council in Councilmanic District 4, Maryland

  Shamieka Preston is a Democratic candidate for Howard County Council in District 4, Maryland. A mother of two and a dedicated community advocate, she was spurred into local politics after successfully organizing against a proposed toxic plastics incinerator in her neighborhood. Preston is running a publicly financed campaign, emphasizing her commitment to being accountable to residents. Her platform prioritizes fully funded schools, support for families and seniors, environmental protection, and ensuring safe and healthy communities. As an active PTA member, she is a strong proponent for a well-funded school system.