Meet our Candidates and Affiliates
We ask that all prospective elected officials start by reviewing our Candidate Pledge. We use these pledges to clearly outline our values and expectations for conduct, and these are ultimately tools to individually hold ourselves and the organization accountable. The Board of Directors for the Maryland Forward Party will then interview candidates and discuss their background, motivation for running, policy objectives, values, campaign strategy, and viability. After the interview, the Board of Directors vote on whether to add the candidate to this page.
Six months prior to the primary election date (or the general election for non-partisan races), the leadership of Maryland Forward, including non-board members, review and evaluate the Shortlist of candidates, and additional relevant context for each election. From this evaluation, the Board ultimately votes on whether or not to offer formal endorsements.
Maryland Forward Party is currently meeting with 2025 local officials and candidates and will be endorsing those who are able to commit to our Candidate Pledge and whom our Board believes align with our Core Values and Mission.
Endorsed Candidates
We are excited to endorse the following list of exemplary candidates for exclusive support. They have committed to our Candidate Pledge and align with our Core Values and Mission.
We encourage our members to not only vote for these candidates, but to also click on the links in their cards below, visit their websites, learn more about their campaigns, donate if you feel it is appropriate, and volunteer to support their campaigns if you can.
Harry
Huntley
Incumbent, running for
City Councilmember
Annapolis City Council, Ward 1
Nov 4, 2025
Why affiliate with Maryland Forward Party
We couldn't be happier supporting Alderman Harry Huntley, who has established himself as a community leader and advocate for all Annapolis residents. His advocacy and support for ranked choice voting helps guide Maryland towards an optimistic future.
Learn more:
Tiffany
Kelly
Incumbent, running for
Mayor
City of Gaithersburg
Nov 4, 2025
Why affiliate with Maryland Forward Party
Tiffany is the exact kind of Community-Up candidate we’re excited to be endorsing. She’s well connected in our communities, actually understanding the real needs of our residents, and then providing a legitimate voice for so many who feel disconnected from our system.
Learn more:
James
Kole
Incumbent, running for
City Councilmember
Laurel City Council, Ward 1
Nov 4, 2025
Why affiliate with Maryland Forward Party
I am excited to be endorsed by Forward. Until very recently, I was unaware that there was an actual third party that aligned with my views, leading me to believe the only way I could be a voice not beholden to a party, was to remain unaffiliated.
Learn more:
Forward Shortlist: Who to Watch
Maryland Forward per policy does not endorse any candidates until six months before an election (excepting previously endorsed elected officials). We have, however, already interviewed, vetted, evaluated, and selected candidates for this list. These candidates have signed our Candidate Pledge and support our values. We encourage you to click the links on their cards below, visit their campaign websites, and find out more about the candidates in your area.
Kevin
Ford Jr.
Candidate for
Maryland State Senator
District 24
Jun 23, 2026
Why affiliate with Maryland Forward Party
I appreciate the Forward Party’s commitment to bridging divides and putting people over politics. Their focus on pragmatic, community-driven solutions aligns with my belief that government should be responsive, inclusive, and future-focused.
Learn more here:
Rob
Daniels
Candidate for
County Executive
Baltimore County
Nov 3, 2026
Why affiliate with Maryland Forward Party
The Forward Party’s mission speaks directly to me. Party platforms do not meet the needs of diverse communities. Voters deserve leaders, not political puppets. Leadership means knowing how to listen and get things done, and our best solutions come from the middle, not the extremes.
Learn more here: