Endorsements

Apple Ballot

HCEA President Ben Schmitt said "Families move here to Howard County and choose to build their lives here for one reason: the excellent reputation of our public schools, and the educators who work tirelessly to teach and support our kids and communities. At a time when public education itself is under assault, these candidates will protect our public schools, and will work with us to increase funding so that all of our kids can achieve their potential – regardless of their zip code.”

Anne Arundel County Executive

“As soon as I met Janssen, I knew he would be an important asset to our leadership team. We hired him to create our Office of Police Accountability and then promoted him to Deputy Chief Administrative Officer to help lead the effort to align our land use agencies with our greener, smarter, more equitable growth strategy. Janssen’s ability to build community and balance competing interests for the public shows the type of leader he is. Few people step up to serve who combine government, legal, and advocacy experience with the infectious enthusiasm that it takes to make progress.

In my view, residents in Howard County’s 4th Council District should enthusiastically cast their vote for Janssen. He’ll take you where you want to be."

Former Howard County Councilmember, District 2

“As the first African American elected to the Howard County Council, I know what leadership looks like. Janssen brings the integrity, judgment, and dedication to community that Howard County needs. As a seasoned leader in local government, he combines a deep understanding of government with years of hands-on community service. He listens to residents’ concerns, works collaboratively to address issues, and responds with care and urgency when people need help. His thoughtful, collaborative approach and clear vision for the future make him ready to lead at a moment of transition.

As a District 4 resident, I am proud not only to endorse Janssen but to vote for him.”

Former Howard County Chief Administrative Officer

(2007- 2023)

“Over my years serving Howard County under four administrations, I worked with many dedicated public servants. Janssen is one I mentored. He provided trusted legal counsel in the Office of Law, and I later asked him to serve as Assistant Chief Administrative Officer because of his keen insight into county government, sound judgment, and integrity. Those same qualities have been further refined over the years. Janssen approaches challenges thoughtfully, works collaboratively, and gets results.

He brings unmatched institutional knowledge to a County Council facing significant turnover, and I am proud to endorse him for County Council.”

Howard County Council Chair

District 2

“It is an honor and privilege to support Janssen Evelyn for Howard County Council, District 4. Over the past 10+ years, in both professional and community settings, I have been consistently impressed by Mr. Evelyn’s leadership, integrity, and unwavering dedication to service. His ability to navigate complex challenges and drive impactful solutions is exactly the commitment needed in a Councilmember.I wholeheartedly endorse him without reservation or hesitation.”

“Janssen has demonstrated a keen understanding of Howard County’s public safety needs and brings a thoughtful, common-sense approach to labor issues. His leadership will help ensure our community and its first responders are well supported. We are proud to endorse him for County Council District 4.”

-Adam Nolder, 1st Vice President

IAFF Local 2000 represents the professional firefighters and paramedics of Howard County. Originally chartered in 1970 and re-established in 1980, Local 2000 has played a critical role in advancing workplace safety, fairness, and collective bargaining rights for its members. Today, the union represents the majority of the county’s career fire and EMS personnel, serving nearly all of Howard County’s communities. Through its advocacy and service, Local 2000 not only supports its members, but also helps ensure the safety and well-being of residents across the county

“HPP is proud to endorse Janssen Evelyn for the Howard County Council in District 4. A lawyer, executive leader in local government, and president of the Howard County Conservancy, Janssen's career has been defined by making government work for everyday families, especially those on the edges of what our community offers. We believe he will be a tremendous asset to the Council and our community.”

The Howard Progressive Project is a grassroots community organization committed to improving the lives of Howard County residents through the promotion of progressive values. We engage in outreach, advocacy, and political activism that supports progressive policies that will lift up all our communities.

Former Howard County Councilmember, District 4

(2006-2018)

“The County Council will face critical issues over the next few years balancing budget constraints with our evolving needs. Janssen has the vision, imagination, and experience, to meet these challenges. We in District 4 will benefit from his enthusiasm and desire to shepherd us into the future. “

“I am also pleased to announce our endorsement of Janssen Evelyn for District 4 Councilmember. Janssen is a long-time public servant and community activist, and will bring a depth of experience and advocacy to the Howard County Council.”   

-Julio Palomo, Business Manager/President

The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) is the largest federation of unions in the United States, representing nearly 15 million workers. The Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO brings together union locals in Washington, DC and five counties in Maryland to advocate, educate, and organize to improve the lives of all working people in our region.

Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America is the nation’s largest grassroots volunteer network fighting to end gun violence and promote public safety. Founded in 2012, it advocates for common-sense gun laws, such as universal background checks and red flag laws, and has chapters in every state

The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) is the nation’s largest union for public service workers. AFSCME Maryland represents over 55,000 workers across Maryland.

The Working Familiar Party (WFP) is a progressive, grassroots political party in the United States, founded in 1998, that advocates for a multiracial working-class agenda, including higher wages, universal healthcare, and racial justice.