2026 ENDORSEMENTS
Why Our Endorsements Matter
As first responders, we work directly with the policies, budgets, and leadership decisions that impact response times, how many firefighters we have, training, equipment, and community safety. We support candidates who understand the importance of investing in fire and rescue services and who have shown a commitment to protecting both our members and the residents we serve.
County Council At Large
Brad Young (D)
Renee Knapp (D)
Renee Knapp (D)
Brad Young has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to the safety of both firefighters and the citizens of Frederick County. He has been a reliable advocate for four-person staffing, recognizing its critical role in effective and safe emergency response. Brad has supported SAFER grants and key budget priorities that ensure our department has the staffing, resources, and equipment needed to serve our community. He has also stood with firefighters in support of collective bargaining agreements and fought for the passage of the 42-hour work week bill to improve firefighter health and safety. His leadership reflects a clear understanding of the challenges we face on the job and a proven commitment to those who serve.
Renee Knapp (D)
Renee Knapp (D)
Renee Knapp (D)
Renee Knapp has shown a strong and consistent commitment to supporting the firefighters who serve Frederick County. She has been a vocal advocate for four-person staffing, understanding its importance for both firefighter safety and effective emergency response. Renee has backed SAFER grant funding and supported critical budget priorities that ensure our department remains properly staffed and equipped. She has also supported collective bargaining agreements and worked to advance the 42-hour work week bill to improve the health and well-being of firefighters. Her leadership demonstrates a clear dedication to strengthening public safety and standing with those on the front lines.
County Council Districts
District 1 - Jenn Alcorn (D)
District 1 - Jenn Alcorn (D)
District 1 - Jenn Alcorn (D)
Jenn Alcorn brings a deeply personal connection to public safety and a longstanding commitment to supporting first responders. As the widow of a fallen police officer, she understands the sacrifices made by those who serve and their families. Though not yet elected to office, Jenn has already demonstrated her support for firefighters by advocating for four-person staffing to ensure safe and effective emergency response. She has also supported the 42-hour work week bill, recognizing its importance for firefighter health and well-being. Her perspective and dedication reflect a genuine commitment to standing with those on the front lines and strengthening public safety in Frederick County.
District 2 - Kai Burhans (R)
District 1 - Jenn Alcorn (D)
District 1 - Jenn Alcorn (D)
Kai Burhans is a candidate who has expressed a strong commitment to supporting firefighters and prioritizing public safety in Frederick County. Though not yet elected to office, he has made clear his intention to advocate for four-person staffing to improve both firefighter safety and emergency response effectiveness. Kai has also pledged to support stronger budget proposals that ensure the fire department is properly staffed, equipped, and resourced. In addition, he supports collective bargaining rights, recognizing the importance of protecting firefighters’ voices and working conditions. His commitments reflect a clear understanding of the needs of those on the front lines.
District 4 - Kavonté Duckett (D)
District 4 - Kavonté Duckett (D)
District 4 - Kavonté Duckett (D)
Kavonté Duckett has proven to be a dependable partner for firefighters and a strong voice for public safety in Frederick County. He understands the real-world demands of the job and has supported efforts to maintain four-person staffing to keep both firefighters and residents safe. Kavonté has also backed SAFER grant funding and prioritized budget investments that ensure our department has the personnel and resources necessary to respond effectively. In addition, he has supported collective bargaining, recognizing the importance of protecting firefighters’ rights and working conditions. His approach reflects a practical, results-driven commitment to those on the front lines.
District 5 - Mason Carter (R)
District 4 - Kavonté Duckett (D)
District 4 - Kavonté Duckett (D)
Mason Carter has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting firefighters and strengthening public safety in Frederick County. He has backed efforts to maintain four-person staffing, recognizing its critical role in safe and effective emergency response. Mason has supported SAFER grant funding and responsible budget decisions that ensure our department is properly staffed, equipped, and prepared to serve the community. He has also shown support for collective bargaining, understanding the importance of protecting firefighters’ working conditions and rights. His leadership reflects a practical focus on ensuring those who serve have the support they need to do the job safely and effectively.
State Senate
District 3 - Karen Lewis Young (D)
District 4 - William “Bill” Folden (R)
District 4 - William “Bill” Folden (R)
Senator Karen Lewis Young has been a proven and consistent advocate for firefighters at the state level. She supported and voted to pass all five of our key legislative priorities, including the 42-hour work week bill, medical cannabis protections, hypertension coverage, a tax-free pension increase, and tuition reimbursement. Her record reflects a clear understanding of the challenges firefighters face both on and off the job. Senator Young has demonstrated a commitment to advancing policies that protect our health, strengthen our financial security, and support our long-term careers. Her leadership in Annapolis has delivered real results for firefighters and their families.
District 4 - William “Bill” Folden (R)
District 4 - William “Bill” Folden (R)
District 4 - William “Bill” Folden (R)
Senator William “Bill” Folden, a former law enforcement officer in Frederick County, brings firsthand public safety experience to his work in the Maryland Senate. He has been a strong and reliable advocate for firefighters, supporting and voting in favor of key legislative priorities including the 42-hour work week bill, enhanced hypertension coverage, a tax-free pension increase, and tuition reimbursement. His background gives him a clear understanding of the demands placed on first responders and the importance of supporting them both on and off the job. Senator Folden has consistently backed policies that strengthen the fire service and improve the well-being of those who serve. His leadership in Annapolis continues to deliver meaningful results for firefighters and their families.
State Delegates
District 3 - Kris Fair (D)
District 4 - Jason Keckler (R)
District 4 - Jason Keckler (R)
Delegate Kris Fair has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting firefighters through his work in the Maryland General Assembly. He supported and voted in favor of all five of our key legislative priorities, including the 42-hour work week bill, medical cannabis protections, hypertension coverage, a tax-free pension increase, and tuition reimbursement. His support reflects a clear focus on improving firefighter health, safety, and long-term stability. Delegate Fair understands the importance of investing in those who serve and has consistently backed policies that strengthen the fire service.
District 4 - Jason Keckler (R)
District 4 - Jason Keckler (R)
District 4 - Jason Keckler (R)
Delegate Jason Keckler has shown a consistent willingness to stand with firefighters on critical issues in Annapolis. He supported all five of our priority legislative initiatives, including the 42-hour work week, medical cannabis protections, hypertension coverage, pension tax relief, and tuition reimbursement. His votes demonstrate a practical approach to ensuring firefighters have the support, resources, and protections needed both on and off the job. Delegate Keckler’s record reflects a commitment to advancing meaningful policies that benefit the fire service and the communities we protect.
District 4 - April Miller (R)
District 4 - April Miller (R)
District 4 - April Miller (R)
April Miller is a candidate who brings a personal connection to the fire service and a strong commitment to supporting those who serve. With family ties to the fire service, she understands the risks and sacrifices firefighters and their families face. Though not yet elected, she has expressed support for expanding cancer protections and coverage, prioritizing mental health funding, and advancing tax credits that benefit firefighters and first responder families. Her focus on these critical issues reflects a thoughtful approach to improving both the health and financial well-being of those on the front lines.
District 4 - Jesse Pippy (R)
District 4 - April Miller (R)
District 4 - April Miller (R)
Delegate Jesse Pippy has been a reliable advocate for firefighters, backing all five of our key legislative priorities in the Maryland House of Delegates. His support for the 42-hour work week bill, medical cannabis protections, hypertension coverage, tax-free pension increases, and tuition reimbursement highlights his commitment to the well-being of firefighters and their families. Delegate Pippy recognizes the demands of the profession and has supported legislation that addresses both immediate needs and long-term security. His leadership continues to make a positive impact on the fire service.
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