County Council in Montgomery County District 4, Maryland

2026 Primary Election

• Paula Bienenfeld — County Council in Councilmanic District 4, Maryland

  Paula Bienenfeld is a Democratic candidate for Montgomery County Council in Councilmanic District 4. With a Ph.D. in Anthropology, she has over 30 years of experience in cultural and natural resources management and works as a Senior Cultural Resources Manager. In this capacity, she has provided support to federal and state government agencies. Previously, she was an Environmental Protection Specialist under contract to the Department of Homeland Security. Dr. Bienenfeld has a history of civic engagement, including testifying on Maryland state bills and previously running for the same council seat as an Independent candidate.

• Kate Stewart — County Council in Councilmanic District 4, Maryland

  Kate Stewart is a Democratic member of the Montgomery County Council, representing District 4, which includes North Bethesda, Kensington, Garrett Park, Silver Spring, Takoma Park, and parts of Chevy Chase. She was elected to the County Council in November 2022 after serving for seven years as the mayor of Takoma Park. Prior to her work in public service, Stewart was a partner at a research and communications firm before becoming an executive vice-president for a nonprofit organization. She holds a bachelor's degree in history from Haverford College and a master's degree in survey methodology from the University of Maryland, College Park, reflecting her background in research and data analysis.

• Peter "Rocky" Whitesell — County Council in Councilmanic District 4, Maryland

  Peter “Rocky” Whitesell is a Democratic candidate for Montgomery County Council in District 4. He holds a B.A. in Biochemistry & Biology and has worked as a policy analyst at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). A former NIH urologic oncology intern, he first moved to the county in 2014. Whitesell's campaign prioritizes addressing the housing crisis and homelessness. He advocates for a more responsive and honest government that tackles its shortcomings with “intellectual humility.” Having decided to run for council after being laid off from NIH, he is committed to continuing his work in public policy to create positive change.