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State Senator · Legislative District 4 · 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 raceWilliam "Bill" Folden is a Republican State Senator representing Maryland's District 4 in Frederick County, having been elected to the Senate in 2022 after previously serving in the House of Delegates from 2015 to 2019. A lifelong resident of Frederick County, his background is rooted in over 30 years of public service as a U.S. Army veteran and a law enforcement officer, including roles as a Deputy Sheriff, Frederick Police Officer, and Assistant Chief of Police at the University of Maryland, Baltimore. Folden's platform centers on what he describes as "faith, family, and freedom," with a particular emphasis on restoring common sense to government and ensuring community safety. He advocates for protecting personal freedoms, defending parental rights, and supporting law enforcement and veterans. Throughout his career, he has focused on legislative issues such as public safety, Second Amendment rights, and promoting fiscal responsibility and economic growth for small businesses.
Sources: Campaign website
I believe in restoring common sense to government. I believe in protecting personal freedoms, defending parental rights, and ensuring that our communities are safe, prosperous, and respected.
Today, I’m running for re-election because I refuse to stand by while the quality of life in our great state continues to decline. The truth is clear: Maryland needs new leadership at the top.
Every dollar you give goes straight into building the people-powered movement Maryland needs to reclaim its future and defend our families from unchecked government overreach.
We’re up against a well-funded Democratic machine determined to preserve the status quo—even if it comes at the cost of our schools, small businesses, and neighborhoods.
Source: senatorfolden.com
Public Safety & Law Enforcement
Ensuring safe communities by supporting law enforcement and advocating for stronger accountability for repeat and juvenile offenders.
“Advocates for stronger police accountability and discipline procedures; Sponsored bills requiring police training on domestic violence and strangulation; Criticized the suspension of home visits to violent offenders on parole.”
Second Amendment Rights
Defending the rights of law-abiding citizens to own and carry firearms while increasing penalties for illegal possession and use in violent crimes.
“Advocates for the rights of law-abiding citizens to own and carry firearms, consistent with the Second Amendment. Sponsored the Violent Firearms Offender Act (SB744).”
Economic Growth
Opposing tax and fee increases while promoting small businesses, job creation, and fiscal responsibility.
“Promoting small businesses, job creation, and fiscal responsibility... Called for spending cuts and elimination of special interest programs in Maryland’s 2025 budget.”
Education & Parental Rights
Advocating for educational choice and parental involvement in the public education system.
“Advocating for parental rights and quality education rooted in local values... Advocates for expanding charter schools and educational choice.”
Veterans & Military Support
Supporting veterans in crisis and ensuring healthcare providers understand the unique needs of military families.
“Sponsored legislation to support veterans in crisis and those arrested while struggling with mental health... Championed housing protections for military members.”
External reporting highlights Folden's passionate defense of law enforcement, notably during a heated committee debate where he called a colleague's characterization of police having a "license to kill" as "completely, absolutely reckless and inappropriate." While colleagues describe him as highly principled and dedicated, he has occasionally opted to "de-escalate" from committee voting sessions following comments he viewed as attacks on his profession. Additionally, news coverage notes his advocacy for public safety and parole reform, including praise for his active presence in local neighborhoods.
“Supporting law enforcement and ensuring safe communities for all.”
Source“Active member of the Maryland Veterans Caucus. Sponsored legislation to support veterans in crisis.”
Source“Folden has worked on legislation related to parole reform, juvenile justice, and victim protection.”
Source“Advocating for parental rights and quality education rooted in local values.”
Source“Promoting small businesses, job creation, and fiscal responsibility.”
Source“Opposes tax and fee increases, especially those impacting small businesses and working families.”
Source“Fighting for affordable, transparent healthcare options for Marylanders.”
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