July 24th, 2025
By Doug Donley, 7/24/2025
PORT DEPOSIT, Md. — Erica Birge, a lifelong Cecil County resident known for spearheading grassroots projects in Port Deposit, has filed to run for the Maryland House of Delegates seat in District 35B. “Together, we stand on common ground,” Birge said while announcing her candidacy, describing the run as a natural extension of her neighborhood‑building work.
A district of 33,000 voters, District 35B stretches across Port Deposit, Perryville, Rising Sun, parts of Northeast and Fair Hill and is home to roughly 33,000 registered voters. It is the only delegate seat that represents Cecil County alone; Elkton and Conowingo share delegates with neighboring jurisdictions. The seat is currently held by Republican Del. Kevin B. Hornberger.
Building on Port Deposit’s momentum, Birge said the success of recent community projects in Port Deposit convinced her those efforts “can be made a little bit bigger and a little bit wider” across the county. Since filing, she has attended town‑hall and planning meetings across the district on what she calls a “fact‑finding mission” to hear what towns are doing well and where they are struggling.
Birge says that her priorities fall under three themes – people, places and community. These include strengthening public services, protecting agricultural and natural resource and elevating civic groups. She says community members need to “shape local decisions”.
Birge traces that philosophy to her parents’ broad definition of “neighbor” and to the 18 years she spent away from Cecil County while her husband served in the military. “I missed it. … It was never about proximity; it was about who needed a helping hand,” she said.
Birge notes the last District 35B race was effectively decided in the primary by just over 4,000 ballots, far below the district’s registered voter pool. She is urging residents—especially young voters—to request mail‑in ballots or stand in line on Election Day. The 2026 gubernatorial‑year primary is set for Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
Supporters will get their first chance to rally behind the campaign on July 26, when Birge’s team enters a turquoise, #35 demolition‑derby car in the Cecil County Fair. “Community is fun,” she said, inviting backers to wear teal or turquoise in the grandstands.
Those interested in volunteering or learning more can email Erica@EricaBirge.vote.
