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Board of Education Member · Kent County · 2026 Primary
This candidate has withdrawn. Information below reflects their filing at the time of withdrawal.
Members of the Board of Education oversee the local public school system by setting educational policies, approving the annual operating budget, and hiring the superintendent. They make key decisions on matters such as student curriculum, school boundaries, and the maintenance of school facilities. This office is important because its members determine how tax dollars are spent to support student learning and the overall quality of schools in the community.
View all candidates in this raceJohn James Beloved, formerly known as John James Munson, is a candidate for Kent County Board of Education District 36 according to final filing records from The Chestertown Spy. He previously ran for Chestertown Town Council Ward 3 in January 2026 and faced an eligibility challenge regarding his parole status from the Kent County Republican Central Committee. Reports clarify that Maryland law restores voting and candidacy rights for ex-offenders regardless of active probation, overriding local charter amendments that might otherwise restrict eligibility. Beloved cleared a background check in October 2025 to serve on the Town's recreation committee prior to his council campaign. His official campaign website is currently unconnected to a Wix domain and social media content is unavailable for review. Despite these gaps, news coverage confirms he will appear on the ballot for the June 23 primary in District 36. The available information focuses primarily on his legal eligibility rather than specific policy positions or campaign promises.
Sources: Campaign website
The Chestertown Report details a challenge from the Kent County Republican Central Committee questioning Beloved's eligibility due to active probation status and alleged violations of a 20-year sentence. The town initially suggested local laws could override state law, but the report clarifies that Maryland's Ex-Felons law restores rights for all elected offices including local ones. The Chestertown Spy confirms his candidacy in final filings for the June 23 primary alongside other Board of Education candidates.