County Executive Race Gets Even More Crowded With 3rd Councilman Entering

PIKESVILLE, MD — Another councilman announced that he is running for Baltimore County executive on Monday.

County Council Member Izzy Patoka (D-Pikesville) declared his candidacy at a launch party in his home's backyard.

Patoka joins fellow Councilmen Julian Jones (D-Woodstock) and Pat Young (D-Catonsville) in running for the county's top office. Nick Stewart, an attorney and former school board member, is also running as a Democrat.

That leaves a crowded field to replace Democratic County Executive Kathy Klausmeier in the 2026 election. The County Council appointed Klausmeier in January to finish the term of now-Congressman Johnny Olszewski (D-District 2). Klausmeier vowed that she would not run in 2026, so as to not give an unfair incumbency advantage to a candidate who was not elected by the voters.

Patoka said he was "overwhelmed by the tremendous amount of love, support and positive vibes" at his campaign kickoff.

"Our campaign is focused on strong communities, good governance, business retention, teacher and educational support, good public safety and relentless follow up," he wrote on Facebook. "This is our moment to lead with decisive action, bold reforms and a clear vision for the county."

The Baltimore Banner reported that Patoka is focused on historic preservation, advocating for the old Pikesville Armory to have a reinvigorated public use. The Banner said Patoka has also pushed to limit school overcrowding, add an eighth and ninth seat to the County Council and handle the associated redistricting with the Council expansion.

WBFF said Patoka has pushed for an independent board to nominate future inspectors general, the county's watchdog investigating fraud and waste. The position entered the spotlight this summer when the county executive's nominee to replace the popular current inspector general drew pushback.

"It was really an unnecessary level of energy and I think moving forward, my legislation, which is part of my good government agenda, good public policy takes the politics of the appointment or reappointment of an inspector general," Patoka said, according to WBFF.

Jones announced his candidacy in late August.

He is focused on education, public safety and affordable home ownership. He also wants to hold the line on taxes. The Banner called him "the council’s most pro-growth member," adding that he thinks development will ensure housing remains affordable. The Banner also said Jones retired from the Anne Arundel County Fire Department as a division chief.

"This is a defining moment for our county, one that calls for bold vision, demonstrated leadership, and proven experience," Jones said on Facebook. "I’m excited to hit the campaign trail, listen to our communities, and share my vision for a stronger Baltimore County. Together, we can build a county that works for every neighborhood, every family, and every resident."

Voters can learn more about the candidates on their websites, listed below:

• izzypatoka.com
• julianejones.com
• nickforbaltimorecounty.com
• patyoung.us

Related:

• Pro-Housing Catonsville Democrat Running For Baltimore Co. Executive
• 1st County Executive Candidate Officially Enters Race