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U.S. Representative · Congressional District 5 · Maryland · 2026 Primary
A U.S. Representative serves as your district's voice in Congress, where they vote on federal laws, national budgets, and policies that impact daily life. They are responsible for securing federal funding for local infrastructure and helping residents resolve issues with federal agencies, such as the Social Security Administration or the Department of Veterans Affairs. This office matters because it ensures your community’s specific needs and priorities are represented in the national government.
View all candidates in this raceWalter Kirkland is a community leader, small business owner, and mentor running for the U.S. Representative seat in Maryland’s 5th District. Raised in Mount Vernon, New York, by a single mother, he developed a background in leadership, economic development, and youth advocacy over more than 30 years. Kirkland is the founder of a non-profit organization focused on youth mentorship and career readiness, work that earned him a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Office of the President of the United States. His platform emphasizes practical solutions for working families, focusing on lowering costs, enhancing public safety, and protecting seniors. He positions himself as a candidate backed by the people rather than political insiders, drawing on his personal experiences with challenges like gun violence and mental health to drive his policy agenda.
Sources: Campaign website
Maryland families are paying more—and getting less. For over 30 years, I’ve been on the ground—mentoring our youth, strengthening families, and supporting local businesses. Not for titles—but for people.
Politics as usual isn’t working—and I’m not part of that system. I’m backed by people, not insiders. And I’m ready to take that fight to Congress.
I’m running for Congress to continue the legacy for Maryland’s Fifth District, and I’m bringing proven leadership and a commitment to getting things done for our community.
Our seniors built this community — they deserve dignity and the security of knowing the benefits they earned will be there when they need them.
Source: walterkirklandforcongress.com
Seniors
Protecting Social Security and Medicare while ensuring seniors can age in place with dignity.
“Walter will protect Social Security and Medicare and fight to make sure no senior has to choose between medicine and groceries. He supports stronger property tax protections so no one is forced out of the home they spent a lifetime building.”
Public Safety
Investing in crime prevention and community partnerships to ensure neighborhood stability.
“Safe neighborhoods don’t happen by accident. They happen when we fund what works. Walter knows that lasting safety comes from investing in people before crime ever starts and supporting law enforcement, while holding the system accountable.”
Youth and Education
Expanding mentorship and career readiness programs to create pathways to high-demand careers.
“Walter Kirkland is committed to expanding youth mentorship, STEM education, and career readiness programs... his plan supports students with leadership development, workforce training, college preparation, and pathways to high-demand careers.”
Transportation
Modernizing infrastructure and advocating for urgent progress on regional transit projects.
“Walter Kirkland is working hard to make transportation more modernized... [He] said there needs to be a sense of urgency for the transit project [light rail].”
Kirkland is identified as a Charles County community activist competing in a crowded Democratic primary to succeed longtime Representative Steny Hoyer. During a candidate forum, he emphasized a sense of urgency for the stalled light rail project in Charles County, noting that transportation is a top priority due to regional growth. External coverage also notes he was featured on Fox 5 DC following Hoyer's retirement announcement to discuss his vision for economic growth and public safety.
“Walter will protect Social Security and Medicare and fight to make sure no senior has to choose between medicine and groceries.”
Source“Walter knows that lasting safety comes from investing in people before crime ever starts and supporting law enforcement.”
Source“Walter Kirkland said there needs to be a sense of urgency for the transit project.”
Source“Walter Kirkland founded a non-profit that champions youth mentorship, education advancement, and career readiness.”
Source