State Senator in Legislative District 8, Maryland

2026 Primary Election

• Carl Jackson — State Senator in Legislative District 8, Maryland

  Carl Jackson is a Democratic politician representing Maryland's 8th Legislative District in the State Senate. In February 2025, Governor Wes Moore appointed him to the position, making him the first African-American to represent the district in that chamber. His legislative career began in the Maryland House of Delegates, where he served from October 2019 until his Senate appointment. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, on October 27, 1984, Jackson is a graduate of Overlea High School. He earned both a Bachelor of Science in business administration and a Master of Business Administration from Strayer University. His professional background includes various roles at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, and the University of Maryland Faculty Physicians, Inc.

• Yahu Blackwell — State Senator in Legislative District 8, Maryland

  Yahu Blackwell is a Republican candidate running for the Maryland State Senate in Legislative District 8. His professional background includes careers as a police officer and a professional boxer. As an entrepreneur, Blackwell is a business owner with ownership in several franchises, including Rita's Italian Ice and Auntie Anne's Pretzels. He is a descendant of the GaDangme people of Ghana. Blackwell is challenging the Democratic incumbent with a campaign platform that emphasizes key issues such as education reform and the strengthening of law enforcement. His candidacy brings together his experiences in public service, professional athletics, and business management to his political aspirations.