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Republican Candidates Aim to Change Baltimore County Executive Landscape

With a Republican county executive absent since the 1990s, two candidates seek to reshape Baltimore County's leadership.

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Republican Candidates Aim to Change Baltimore County Executive Landscape

TOWSON, Md. — In a bid to break a long-standing Democratic hold on the Baltimore County Executive position, two Republican candidates are vying for the nomination ahead of the upcoming primary on June 23.

Kimberly Stansbury and Patrick Dyer are both focused on public safety as their top priority, emphasizing the need for improved security measures in the county. Stansbury stated, "If we can't keep the people of Baltimore County safe, then why are they paying so much in taxes?" Dyer echoed this sentiment, asserting that public safety would be the cornerstone of his administration's budget and focus.

Both candidates have also voiced concerns regarding accountability in the Baltimore County Public Schools system. Dyer called for an inspector general to review school funding, emphasizing the importance of transparency in how educational resources are allocated. He highlighted the need for early childhood education investments, pointing out the long-term benefits of ensuring children can read by the third grade.

Stansbury criticized the current funding structure, which allocates 50% of the county budget to schools without sufficient oversight. She argued that the lack of accountability has contributed to poor student performance, noting that only half of students are reading at grade level.

As they campaign in a county that has leaned Democratic for decades, both candidates are making a case for change. Stansbury urged voters to consider a different approach to governance, stating, "Let a Republican in to just go over things, do a reset. We need to get back to basics." Dyer framed his candidacy as a chance for historic change, claiming that prolonged one-party rule has stifled progress and innovation.

The upcoming primary on June 23 will determine which candidate will represent the Republican party in the general election, potentially marking a significant shift in Baltimore County's political landscape.

Reported by HarborBeat based on WMAR 2 News Baltimore (source).

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