Many GOP Candidates Missing From 2026 Election

–file photo from 2022-

The filing deadline has passed and there are a lot of holes and empty slots on the Republican ticket. Here are a look at some of the races.

Governor
With Larry Hogan declining and Sen. Steve Hershey filing for reelection in his District 36 seat, it appeared the Republican primary is between Ed Hale and Dan Cox and that is the case.

Congress
At least Andy Harris is safe from redistricting (for this election) but no high-profile candidates filed to challenge any seating Democrats.

Kim Klacik challenged John Olszewski in 2024 and Yuripzy Morgan ran in District 3 in 2022 but the usual cast of Dave Wallace, Ray Bly, Berney Flowers and others are all that filed in those districts.

District 6 is also disappointing. Neil Parrott came close in previous Congressional elections but is not running again.

County Executive GOP Candidates
Howard County and Anne Arundel Counties had Republican county executives in 2018.

That was a long time ago.

Newcomer Dave Crawford is the only Republican to file in Anne Arundel County and no Republican filed for Howard County Executive.

House of Delegates

It’s still amazing that no Republican filed in District 37A to challenge Sheree Sample-Hughes

District 30A is another winnable two-member district without a Republican candidate.

Heather Bagnell just squeezed by her victories in 2018 and 2022 but has no Republican opponent in District 33C.

Let’s hope the local central committees in those districts select candidates.

Senate Races
There are a few bright spots.
District 30
Jessica Haire filed to challenge Sen. Shaneka Henson. She was appointed and beatable.  Haire should run a strong campaign against Henson.

District 33
Republican Amy Leahy filed at the last minute to challenge Sen. Dawn Gile.

District 34
Sen. Mary-Dulany James is being challenged by Republican Raj Goel. Although we were hoping for Christian Miele.