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Dylan Behler Wins Nod for House Vacancy from Anne Arundel

Dylan Behler, a 26-year-old political rising star, has been selected by the Anne Arundel County Democratic Central Committee as the recommended candidate to fill the vacant seat in Maryland’s House of Delegates. The move positions Behler as a potential youngest-ever member of the General Assembly, pending approval from Governor Wes Moore.

The seat in question was previously held by Shaneka Henson, who was appointed to the state Senate last month following the elevation of former Sen. Sarah K. Elfreth to Congress. With his impressive background in state government and local political experience, Behler stands ready to tackle the issues facing Maryland’s communities.

A Young Leader with Deep Political Roots

Behler, who currently works as director of legislative and constituent services at the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, has quickly established himself as a significant figure in Maryland’s political landscape. His experience includes serving as chief of staff to former state Sen. Sarah K. Elfreth, a role he held before Elfreth made the transition to Congress. Behler has also been involved in local politics, working on Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman’s 2018 campaign, and serving as chair of the Anne Arundel Democratic Central Committee.

The selection of Behler to fill the House vacancy highlights his deep connection to the community and his commitment to public service. During the selection meeting on Saturday, Behler received 10 votes, including his own, in a competitive field of candidates. Progressive activist Chrissy Holt garnered seven votes, while Annapolis Alderman Brooks Schandelmeier received one. Other candidates, including local businesswoman Abigail Diehl and healthcare professional Lindsay Donahue, did not receive any votes.

Dylan Behler Maryland

Upon learning of the recommendation, Behler expressed his gratitude and eagerness to serve Maryland. “I am humbled and proud to earn the central committee’s recommendation,” he said in a statement. “From the budget deficit to the housing crisis, the lack of affordable childcare, and the ever-increasing cost of goods, there are so many challenges facing Maryland, and I am ready to get to work to support Marylanders and our working families.”

Filling a Vacancy with Big Shoes to Fill

The District 30A seat that Behler hopes to fill had been previously occupied by Shaneka Henson, who served for more than five years before being elevated to the state Senate. Henson’s departure left the seat open, triggering the central committee’s search for a replacement. With Gov. Moore’s approval, Behler would become the 13th delegate appointed since the 2022 election, with two other vacant House seats still pending.

The appointment of Behler to the seat comes at a time when Maryland has seen significant political turnover in its legislative body. Vacancies in the House of Delegates have raised concerns about political representation, with many hoping that fresh faces like Behler can help steer the state in the right direction. His youthful energy and experience in both state and local politics may be exactly what Maryland needs to address the pressing issues at hand.

A Focus on Maryland’s Pressing Challenges

Behler’s platform centers around the economic and social challenges that continue to impact Marylanders. In his statement, he underscored the importance of addressing the state’s budget deficit, affordable housing crisis, and the escalating costs of everyday life. As a state representative, he would likely push for policies that prioritize working families, focusing on increasing access to affordable housing, improving childcare availability, and finding solutions to combat the rising cost of living.

Behler’s efforts to tackle these issues are not just about representing his district but ensuring that the state as a whole makes progress on these critical areas. His background in government service gives him the tools necessary to advocate for these changes effectively.

Should Gov. Moore approve his appointment, Behler will take his place as part of the legislative body tasked with shaping the future of Maryland. His youthful outlook, paired with his strong political connections and experience, has made him a force to be reckoned with.

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