This is part of the Moderately MOCO Candidate Introduction Series, featuring responses to our questionnaire from candidates for local office. For more information or if you didn’t receive the questionnaire via email, visit our contact form. This content is based on information submitted by candidates and does not represent the views of Moderately MOCO.
Basic Information
Political Party: Democratic
Campaign Website: www.popeforcouncil.com
Social Media Links: Facebook | Instagram | X (Twitter)
Why Are You Running For Office?
Raised by my grandparents in a small town, I learned early the importance of family, community, and looking out for your neighbors. Those values guided me to a career in public service. I have spent my professional life working to make government work for people, including serving as Chief of Staff in the Maryland General Assembly and working for leaders like Congressman Jamie Raskin and former DNC Chair Tom Perez. I am running to represent the voices and needs of all Montgomery County residents because I believe that good policy is built on community, compassion and common sense.
What Is The Biggest Issue Facing Voters In This Race?
The biggest issue facing voters in this race is inflation and the rising cost of living. Families across our community are feeling the pressure of higher housing costs, groceries, childcare, and everyday essentials. People want leadership that understands these challenges and is focused on real solutionsโstrengthening our local economy, supporting small businesses, expanding affordable housing, and ensuring working families can live, work, and thrive in our county. My priority is making Montgomery County more affordable and economically competitive for everyone.
What Experience Best Prepares You For This Role?
The experience that best prepares me for this role is my background working in the community, in business, and in government. I understand the needs of our residents and how both the private and public sectors operate. I have served my community as a neighborhood association president, started and operated a successful small business, and worked in the Maryland General Assembly.
In the General Assembly, I worked closely with advocates, stakeholders, and legislators to help draft, pass, and implement legislation that breaks down systemic barriers, protects women and children, fights hate crimes, and improves access to services for all Marylanders.
On day one, I will be ready to lead and ensure that county government is responsive to the everyday needs of residentsโfrom fixing potholes and picking up trash to delivering strong, reliable local government services. I will go the extra mile to make sure constituents are heard and satisfied with the services they receive.
What Would You Like Voters To Know About You Personally?
What I would like voters to know about me personally is that Montgomery County is truly home for my family and me. My wife, our son, and I have lived here for about 20 years, and we have built our lives in this community. We are active members of Kingdom Fellowship Church in Calverton, where faith and service are important parts of our lives.
Outside of work and community service, I enjoy simple family time. On many weekends you can find me working in my yard or cheering on my son at his swim meets. Those moments keep me grounded and remind me why I am so committed to making Montgomery County a great place for all families to live, work, and thrive.
Support Local News with just $5 a month!
Sign up for our email updates
Related Posts
Recent Posts
- Jeremiah Pope – Candidate for Montgomery County Council At-Large (Moderately MOCO Candidate Introduction Series)
- MCPS: New Regional High School Programs Website Now Available
- Dr. Tiffany Wicks – Candidate for MoCo Board of Education At-Large (Moderately MOCO Candidate Introduction Series)
- Maxwell Uy – Candidate for Sheriff (Moderately MOCO Candidate Introduction Series)
- Emergency Filing Seeks to Halt MCPS Plan Affecting Wootton High School
- Samir Ahmed – Candidate for MCDCC At-large (Moderately MOCO Candidate Introduction Series)
- Andrea Shedler – Candidate for Democratic Central Committee – District 15 (Moderately MOCO Candidate Introduction Series)
- Robert Wu – Candidate for Delegate District 39 (Moderately MOCO Candidate Introduction Series)
- Whatโs Playing This April: Community Theater Shows in Montgomery County
- Americaโs 2nd Largest Outdoor Film Tour Hits DC, Featuring Former MoCo Resident
