LA PLATA, Md. – In a high-stakes election season, Southern Maryland voters weighed in on critical leadership roles and ballot measures that will shape the future of their communities. Across Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties, residents cast their votes on everything from mayoral candidates to board of education members and governance structure reforms. Here’s a breakdown of the key outcomes and their potential impact.
Chesapeake Beach Mayoral and Town Council Elections
In one of the most closely-watched races, Chesapeake Beach voters elected Bruce Wahl as their new mayor. Wahl, a former mayor of Chesapeake Beach, won with 941 votes, defeating challenger Valerie Beaudin, who received 742 votes. Wahl’s victory represents a return to familiar leadership for the town, aligning with his focus on community-centered policies.
Town Council Results: Six council seats were also contested, with voters electing the following candidates:
– Laura Blackwelder: 956 votes
– James Shuls: 898 votes
– Kathleen Berault: 837 votes
– Eric Reinhardt: 746 votes
– Daniel Duvall: 723 votes
– Greg Morris: 645 votes
These elected council members will collaborate with Mayor Wahl to address development, zoning, and public resources, balancing growth with the town’s commitment to preserving its character.
Chesapeake Beach Ballot Measures: Gambling and Park Access
Chesapeake Beach residents also voted on two notable ballot measures that captured widespread attention:
1. Gambling Licenses: The proposal to expand gaming licenses for electronic bingo and casino slots was soundly rejected, with 1,295 “No” votes against 399 “Yes” votes. This outcome maintains the town’s stance against gambling expansion, reflecting a community desire to limit commercial gaming activities.
2. Bayfront Park Access: Voters chose to restrict access to Bayfront Park to town residents, local deputies, and members of the North Beach Volunteer Fire Department. The measure passed with 1,391 “Yes” votes and 351 “No” votes, emphasizing the town’s commitment to exclusive access and preserving the park’s unique atmosphere for residents.
Charles County: Charter Government Proposal Rejected
In a significant decision, Charles County voters rejected a proposal to transition from a commissioner-based government to a charter government system. This measure, if passed, would have granted the county more autonomy in local decision-making and potentially restructured government functions. The rejection signals that voters favor the stability and accountability of the existing structure, prioritizing continuity over change in local governance.
U.S. Senate Race: Angela Alsobrooks’ Victory and Implications for Southern Maryland
In the U.S. Senate race, Angela Alsobrooks (D) defeated Larry Hogan (R) statewide, although Hogan led in Calvert County with 54.3% of the local vote. Alsobrooks’ victory on a statewide level, where she received strong support, is expected to bring attention to issues important to Southern Maryland, such as healthcare, economic development, and environmental protection. Her stance on Chesapeake Bay preservation could positively influence policies that directly impact the region’s environmental and economic future.
Board of Education Results
Voters across Southern Maryland also elected new members to their local Boards of Education, shaping the future of educational policy in the region:
Calvert County Board of Education –
District 1: Joseph Marchio won with 53.89%, defeating Mike Shisler.
District 2: Paul Harrison claimed victory with 58.32%, beating Antoine White.
District 3: Melissa Goshorn secured her seat with 59.05%, surpassing Jeanette L. Flaim.
These newly elected officials are expected to influence key educational policies, budget priorities, and curriculum standards that will affect students across the region.
Looking Ahead: What This Election Means for Southern Maryland
The 2024 election results across Southern Maryland illustrate a strong commitment to local values. In Chesapeake Beach, the return of Bruce Wahl, the rejection of gambling expansion, and the move to protect Bayfront Park access show a desire for measured, resident-focused policies. Meanwhile, Charles County voters opted for continuity by rejecting the shift to charter government, signaling trust in the current system.
Angela Alsobrooks’ election to the U.S. Senate, coupled with new Board of Education members across Southern Maryland, promises to bring attention to pressing issues such as education, community resources, and environmental protection. As newly elected officials take office, Southern Maryland residents can look forward to a balanced approach to development, governance, and education in the years to come.
Contact our news desk at news@thebaynet.com
What bout my rights to fart in public?
CHARTER GOV. HELL NO KEEPS A COUPLE OF THEM FILLING THEIR POCKET WITH OUR MONEY
How in the world did the dinosaur, Steny Hoyer, get reelected? At 87, he has had a stroke, looks like death, and hasn’t been heard from in months. He didn’t even really campaign.
He hasn’t filled his pockets enough, yet.
“Meanwhile, Charles County voters opted for continuity by rejecting the shift to charter government, signaling trust in the current system.”
Trust in the current system, but NOT in the 3 commissioners who tried to ram Charter down the throats of the Charles County taxpayers.
Maryland is not like the rest of the country. Maryland is not like the rest of the country. Maryland is not like the rest of the country.
I’d like to see the websites Reproductive Trojan Horse, Freedom from Violence + Health not Harm stay up. I’d like Maryland to know that there was a heck of an effort made to try not to have the constitution amendment go through + who was not silent about it.
“Charles County voters rejected a proposal to transition from a commissioner-based government to a charter government system.”
This is the second time the citizens of Charles County said a big, resounding NO to Charter. Hopefully, the vote will be respected, and, any and all future commissioners moving forward, will not waste any more taxpayer money trying for a 3rd go-round!
historically close election results for Board of education in Charles?
I’d like to see Mike Lukas give it another go for Bored of Ed., I mean Board of Ed.
there are recounts going on, but where?
Garrett (county) managed to defeat the stateballot question. How’d they do that? What goes on in Garrett that causes them to defeat the question? Can it be replicated across the state, or must it stay in Garrett county?
judges, appeals court judges, supreme court judges. Did we have any on the balot this election Do you see any signs for them? Do they have treasurers\ do theyhave to have treasurers? They can’t be challenged\ no write- in option. I wonder if they’re exempt from having to find treasurers, for having to frantically search for treasurers or else they can’t file? Maybe no signs because no treasurers.
there is an opening on the Charles Central Committee for a male member. See https://www.charlescountydems.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Charles-County-Democratic-Central-Committee-CCDCC-Vacancy-February-28-2025.pdf.
there might be growing pains from what DOnald Trump is doing, but its been so long since this country was constitutionally run\ followed the US Constitution that its unrecognizable. ++ Elon Musk wants to do an investigation of how COngress got so wealthy? Could we get to the point where our US house districts are less than 100,000? COuld we get to the point that Congress e-mail address’s are on their websites?