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County Council Member · District 1 · Montgomery County · 2026 Primary
County Council Members serve as the legislative branch of county government, passing local laws and approving the annual budget that funds public schools, roads, and emergency services. They set local tax rates and make final decisions on land use and zoning, which determines where new homes and businesses can be built. This office is responsible for prioritizing how your tax dollars are spent and managing the long-term growth and infrastructure of your community.
View all candidates in this raceDebbie Spielberg is a Democratic candidate for Montgomery County Council District 1, born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia with a BA from Swarthmore College. She has devoted over 15 years to public service as a senior staffer in county government, including serving as Legislative Director for Representative John Lewis (D, GA) for five years, Campaign Chair for State Senator Jamie Raskin, and Special Assistant to County Executive Marc Elrich since 2018. A resident of Montgomery County for over 25 years with two children who attended local schools, she describes herself as a progressive Democrat bringing compassion for those who need extra help to thrive. Spielberg emphasizes her direct experience with complex issues facing the county including health care access, internet service, housing affordability, land use, economic development, and environmental protection, stating she won't need on-the-job training.
Sources: Campaign website
I have the experience, commitment, and enthusiasm for the work.
I've devoted my professional life to championing and implementing policies that serve the public interest, taking on complex issues like health care access, internet service, and housing affordability.
As a progressive Democrat, I bring compassion for those who need extra help to thrive. As a government employee, I know the importance of transparency and accountability. As someone who has regularly dealt with constituents, I listen with respect and care.
I have direct experience with each one of these important issues, which is why I won't need on-the-job training and will get to work for District 1 residents on day 1.
Source: debbiespielberg.org
Housing
Affordable housing policies and neighborhood preservation
“We also need thoughtful policies that support affordable housing and our beautiful neighborhoods.”
Environment
Environmental protection including tree planting, recycling efforts, green space preservation, ban on gas powered leaf blowers, and pesticide restrictions on lawns
“Providing input on Operating and Capital budgets (FY19-FY26), including support for the Kid Museum, increased tree planting, and efforts to increase recycling and reduce waste”
Land Use
Reviewing land use policies and practices including Bethesda Minor Master Plan amendment, Growth and Infrastructure Policy, and More Housing NOW package
“Reviewing land use policies and practices, including the Bethesda Minor Master Plan amendment, the Growth and Infrastructure Policy, and the More Housing NOW package”
Infrastructure
Sidewalks that preserve trees and commonsense approach to infrastructure
“Working with DOT staff to craft a commonsense approach to sidewalks that preserves as many trees as possible”
Bethesda Magazine reported that Debbie Spielberg confirmed her run for the open District 1 County Council seat in the 2026 Democratic primary election. She formed a campaign committee in August 2025 and officially launched her campaign on October 4 with an event at a private residence in Potomac. As of the reporting period, she had not yet officially filed candidacy with the Maryland State Board of Elections.
“We also need thoughtful policies that support affordable housing and our beautiful neighborhoods.”
Source“Providing input on Operating and Capital budgets (FY19-FY26), including support for the Kid Museum, increased tree planting, and efforts to increase recycling and reduce waste”
Source“Reviewing land use policies and practices, including the Bethesda Minor Master Plan amendment, the Growth and Infrastructure Policy, and the More Housing NOW package”
Source“Working with DOT staff to craft a commonsense approach to sidewalks that preserves as many trees as possible”
Source