Patrick Kirby Announces County Commissioner Candidacy

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Patrick Kirby, a registered Democrat from Hagerstown, Maryland, has announced his candidacy for a seat on the Washington County Board of County Commissioners in the 2026 midterm election cycle. Kirby, who works as a Rehabilitation Therapy Technician, aims to bring a vision of inclusivity in governance to Washington County. According to his campaign, if elected, he would be the first openly gay elected official at the county level in Washington County’s history.

Kirby has expressed a desire to foster a more inclusive approach to local governance, stating that he has observed a lack of consideration for diverse viewpoints within Washington County. He intends to not only listen to constituents but also to act as a voice of reason and progress for those seeking change and improved representation for Washington County residents. His campaign priorities, should he be elected, include ensuring a balanced budget while seeking opportunities to provide tax relief to residents. He also pledges to fully fund the Washington County Board of Education’s budget to create an environment conducive to student and educator success with ample resources.

Furthermore, Kirby plans to engage business owners in economic growth strategies and decision-making processes. Addressing the issue of affordable housing is another key focus, with the goal of assisting in the fight against homelessness. He also aims to invest in workforce development to support working families and advocate for higher-wage jobs to enter the area. Finally, Kirby intends to make informed decisions regarding green energy and land preservation investments to promote environmental protection.

Article by Ken Buckler, based upon information from Friends of Patrick Kirby

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