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Governor · Maryland · 2026 Primary
The Governor serves as Maryland’s chief executive, overseeing the state government's daily operations and managing executive agencies. This official proposes the annual state budget and has the power to sign or veto legislation passed by the General Assembly. The Governor also appoints the heads of state departments and fills vacancies in the state judiciary.
View all candidates in this raceDan Cox is a Republican attorney and former Maryland state delegate who served from 2019 to 2023 representing Carroll and Frederick counties. He is seeking the governorship for a second time after previously serving as the GOP nominee in the 2022 election. A father of 10, Cox has aligned his political platform with President Donald Trump's "Make America Great" agenda. During his previous campaign and legislative tenure, he positioned himself against COVID-19 lockdown measures and has been a vocal critic of certain educational curricula. For his 2026 bid, he has selected Rob Krop, a small business owner and former legal client, as his running mate for lieutenant governor. Cox is known for his conservative stances on school policies and personal liberties.
Sources: Campaign website
Education
Cox has advocated against the inclusion of specific social and racial theories in school curricula.
“speaking out against “critical race theory” and “gender identity indoctrination” in schools”
Public Health Governance
Cox voiced strong opposition to the restrictive measures implemented during the pandemic.
“speaking out... against the COVID-19 lockdown measures”
Maryland Matters reports that Cox has filed for a second gubernatorial bid following his landslide loss to Wes Moore in 2022. The article notes his alignment with Trump's platform, his opposition to COVID-19 mandates, and his legal work defending his current running mate against federal charges. Coverage highlights that Cox was a first-term delegate during his initial run and now joins a crowded Republican field for the 2026 race.