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State Senator · Legislative District 42 · Maryland · 2026 Primary
Maryland State Senators represent their local districts in the General Assembly, where they propose and vote on laws covering issues like education, transportation, and public safety. They are responsible for approving the state’s annual budget and have the unique power to confirm or reject the Governor’s appointments for judges and agency leaders. This office is critical because its decisions determine how state tax dollars are spent and which policies govern your local community.
View all candidates in this racePaul V. Konka is a retired Navy Captain and finance professor running as a Democrat for the Maryland State Senate in District 42. He highlights a multi-sector background that includes experience in five federal agencies, service in the Maryland state government, and his current role as an adjunct professor at the University of Maryland Global Campus. Konka's platform is built on what he calls "Experience That Matters," emphasizing disciplined governance, fiscal accountability, and environmental protection. He holds a law degree with a focus on environmental law, an MBA in finance and investments, and a BA in history. His campaign prioritizes strengthening the public education system through strategic reforms and sustainable funding while advocating for the preservation of local landscapes and clean energy.
Sources: Campaign website
"I’m not just asking for your vote; I’m asking for the opportunity to put my 'Experience That Matters' to work for you."
"As a retired Navy Captain, I know what it means to lead under pressure and put the mission first. That same discipline guided my career through five federal agencies and the State of Maryland, where I worked to solve complex organizational and financial challenges."
"With a structural deficit facing our state, Maryland needs leaders who understand complex budgets. I will ensure your tax dollars are spent efficiently and transparently."
"Protecting our environment is a legal and moral obligation. I am committed to legislation that preserves our landscapes and addresses climate challenges."
Source: paulkonka.com
Education
Supporting the Blueprint for Maryland's Future through sustainable funding, competitive teacher salaries, and expanded vocational training.
“Blueprint for Maryland's Future: Supporting strategic reforms with sustainable funding. Teacher Support: Advocating for competitive salaries to retain top-tier educators.”
Finance
Implementing rigorous fiscal oversight and transparent spending to address the state's structural deficit.
“Fiscal Accountability: Rigorous oversight to eliminate waste and prioritize services. Economic Growth: Supporting small business development and local job creation.”
Environment
Preserving green spaces from overdevelopment, maintaining the Urban Rural Demarcation Line, and transitioning to clean energy.
“Conservation: Defending our parks and green spaces from overdevelopment. No change to the Urban Rural Demarcation Line! Sustainable Energy: Transitioning to a clean energy economy.”
The Baltimore Sun reports that Konka is one of seven candidates competing for the District 42 state senator seat in a race where the incumbent is not running for reelection. Community Media Center notes he is running in the Democratic primary against Paul Henderson and Stephanie Popescu. External sources confirm his website and contact information for the 2026 election cycle.
“Strong schools are the backbone of a thriving community. I am focused on ensuring every student has access to an education that prepares them for a modern economy.”
Source“Protecting our environment is a legal and moral obligation. I am committed to legislation that preserves our landscapes and addresses climate challenges.”
Source“With a structural deficit facing our state, Maryland needs leaders who understand complex budgets. I will ensure your tax dollars are spent efficiently and transparently.”
Source“Responsible Budgeting: Ensuring Maryland remains affordable to live and retire in.”
Source“Economic Growth: Supporting small business development and local job creation.”
Source“Retired Navy Captain delivers disciplined governance approach.”
Source“No change to the Urban Rural Demarcation Line!”
Source