Get to Know the TAAAC-Endorsed Candidates

Kelly Smith will bring over two decades of experience in the U.S. military, federal government, education, and nonprofit leadership to the council. She was in fact a teacher in AACPS. From the battlefield to the classroom, Kelly has focused on uplifting others. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Education with a concentration in Leadership and Management.

Catelyn Middlebrooks is a life-long Anne Arundel County resident who grew up in District 2 and proudly graduated from Glen Burnie High School. She credits her STEM teachers with inspiring her to study biochemistry. Her experiences during COVID opened her eyes to the need for more scientists in public service. For Catelyn, this election is about ensuring the community that shaped her remains a place where everyone can grow and belong.

A current TAAAC member and long-time special educator, Rebecca clearly has educators' priorities at heart. She will be a strong advocate for AACPS employees, public education, and working families.

Julie has been an advocate for children and families throughout her terms as councilmember, Board of Education member, PTA president, AACPS parent, and special education teacher. She has worked to reduce class sizes, expand mental health and special education services, and increase pay for all educators.

Small business owner and AACPS parent, Natalie Ogilvie is ready to fight for pro-public education priorities around right to strike legislation, increased investments in education, affordable housing, and more.

As the former mayor of Annapolis, Gavin's community relationships, clear track record of improving the quality of life within the city of Annapolis, and business connections throughout the district made him stand out in a crowded field. He is also using public campaign financing.

As the owner of Chick & Ruth’s Delly and several county Five Guys restaurants, Spencer’s campaign is focused on supporting our local economy and addressing issues of affordability. He is strongly aligned on educators’ priority issues including embracing our diverse community and wants to bring a new, young perspective to Crofton and south county.

TAAAC has endorsed our sitting Circuit Court Judges, Sydney Butcher and Ginina Jackson-Stevenson. Unlike their opponent, our current sitting judges have been extensively vetted through the year-long judicial appointment process and now have significant experience on the bench. They have both proven themselves and approach every single case seriously and impartially, using their comprehensive legal knowledge and background to apply and uphold the law. Finally, both of these candidates have impressive resumes that include supporting the growth and improvement of young people in our community.

In solidarity with our union siblings in AFSCME Locals 582 and 2563, which are both comprised of Anne Arundel County Government employees, we are supporting Anne Arundel County Ballot Question A. This question amends the county charter to allow employee unions to enter into binding arbitration agreements to resolve labor disputes. Binding arbitration helps level the playing field between management and labor, serving to hold management accountable in the negotiations process.