County Council in Councilmanic District 5, Maryland

2026 Primary Election

• Cat Carter — County Council in Councilmanic District 5, Maryland

  Cat Carter is a Democratic candidate for the Howard County Council, District 5 in Maryland. A former public school teacher and cybersecurity business owner, Carter brings a community-driven approach to local government. She serves as President of the PTA Council of Howard County, advocating for education funding and students with disabilities. Raised by Army parents, she emphasizes a deep commitment to service. Her campaign focuses on investing in public education, protecting the rural character of Western Howard County, and managing the budget responsibly. She is competing for an open council seat in the 2026 election.

• Felita Phillips — County Council in Councilmanic District 5, Maryland

  Felita Phillips is a Democratic candidate running for the Howard County Council in District 5, Maryland. Born in Jamaica, she immigrated to the United States as a child and was raised in Columbia, Maryland, an experience that shaped her commitment to diversity and community inclusion. Professionally, Phillips has worked extensively as a licensed real estate agent in the Columbia area for over three decades, holding specialized industry designations. In public service, she has been an active appointed member of the Howard County Board of Appeals. Her campaign focuses on inclusive progress and responsive local leadership.

• Ryan P. O'Connor — County Council in Councilmanic District 5, Maryland

  Ryan P. O'Connor is a Republican candidate running for the Howard County Council in Councilmanic District 5, Maryland. A lifelong resident, O'Connor grew up in Ellicott City and graduated from Glenelg High School in 1996. He currently resides in West Friendship with his wife and three children. Rather than being a career politician, he is a dedicated community leader who has served as a homeowners association president and director of the Howard County Boys Club Lacrosse. In his campaign for the County Council, he is advocating for strong schools, lower taxes, fiscal discipline, and safe communities while opposing unchecked development.

• Steven M. Bolen — County Council in Councilmanic District 5, Maryland

  Steven M. Bolen is a Democratic candidate for the Howard County Council, representing Councilmanic District 5 in Maryland. Bolen brings extensive experience to his campaign, having served as a 27-year veteran of federal service working at executive levels. Deeply engaged in his community, he was appointed to the Howard County Police Accountability Board, representing District 5, to help ensure transparency and accountability in local law enforcement. Bolen has also previously run for the Maryland House of Delegates in District 9A during the 2018 and 2022 elections. Highly educated, he holds a doctorate, a master's degree, and a bachelor's degree in his fields of expertise.