Cites Morrison’s mix of new energy and proven experience, highlights his own connection to the district.

For Immediate Release: March 9, 2026

BETHESDA, Md., March 9, 2026 — Former Governor Martin O’Malley, who served as Governor of Maryland from 2007 to 2015, today announced his endorsement of Drew Morrison in the race for District 1 on the Montgomery County Council. Governor O’Malley, who was raised in Montgomery County and also served as Mayor of Baltimore and Commissioner of the Social Security Administration, noted Morrison’s unique experience and perspective in pursuing the Council seat.

“Having grown up in Montgomery County, I know that Drew brings the right policy know-how and practical approach to help defend this community and rebuild its economy in this challenging moment. Now is the time for the next generation of leadership that blends new energy with proven, on-the-ground experience. Drew brings both to this race, with a record of achievement at the County and State level in Maryland and in the private sector. I am proud to endorse Drew Morrison to be the next District 1 Councilmember,” said Governor O’Malley.

Morrison’s policy platform focuses on five key areas: growing good-paying jobs, creating a more affordable County, ensuring schools deliver for every student, building the infrastructure the community needs, and protecting the environment and leading on clean energy. He highlighted what Governor O’Malley’s endorsement means for the campaign.

“I am so grateful for Governor O’Malley’s support,” Morrison said. “As Mayor, Governor, and Commissioner, he led with Democratic values and a keen eye for using data and accountability to drive better policy outcomes. He knows that communities like Montgomery County are going to have to deliver on both sound policy and effective execution to rise to the moment. We need to create a Montgomery County that makes good on its promises so that all residents can access good-paying jobs, afford to live in the community that they love, and know that their government is investing effectively in the schools and infrastructure that they depend on.”

Governor Martin O’Malley was raised in Montgomery County, attending Our Lady of Lourdes School in Bethesda. He served two terms on the Baltimore City Council before being elected Mayor in 1999. In his two terms as Governor, he led across a range of policy areas, including data-driven governance through StateStat, excellence in education, and a renewed commitment to the Chesapeake Bay and the state’s environment. He served as the Commissioner of Social Security under President Joe Biden from 2023 to 2024, revitalizing the Social Security Administration through data-driven management, improved customer service, and modernization efforts.

Drew Morrison, candidate for Montgomery County Council in District 1, grew up in Bethesda. As a member of former District 1 Councilmember Roger Berliner’s staff, Morrison advanced major policy reforms including creating the Montgomery County Green Bank and implementing the Vision Zero traffic safety program in Montgomery County. He is a transportation and planning expert, having led infrastructure projects throughout the region. Since 2023, Morrison has served as a Senior Policy Advisor in the Maryland Department of Transportation. He graduated from Yale University with a degree in Economics and Political Science, with a concentration in Urban Studies, before obtaining his master’s degrees in City Planning and Business Administration from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Media contact: Drew Morrison – info@MorrisonforCouncil.com; 301-708-8036