Democrat Nick Stewart launches campaign for Baltimore County Executive

Stewart aims to address affordability crisis and modernize local government

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Democrat Nick Stewart has launched his campaign for Baltimore County Executive, challenging several other candidates in the Democratic primary election. Stewart is a Baltimore County native who has served on the Baltimore County School Board and the county's Workforce Development Board. He is running on a platform of making Baltimore County more affordable, inclusive, and modern for all residents.

Why it matters

The Baltimore County Executive race is an important election that will shape the future direction of the county. Stewart is positioning himself as a fresh, progressive voice who can address the county's affordability crisis and modernize local government operations.

The details

Stewart is trying to replace current Executive Kathy Klausmeier, who is serving the last two years of a term vacated by Johnny Olszewski after he was elected to Congress. Stewart said his campaign has raised more than $400,000 since April 2025. He will challenge three Democratic candidates: Councilman Izzy Patoka, Councilman Julian Jones Jr. and Councilman Pat Young. Business owner Patrick Dyer is running as a Republican, along with Kimberly Stansbury.

  • Stewart launched his campaign in February 2026.
  • The Democratic primary election is scheduled for later this year.

The players

Nick Stewart

A Democrat running for Baltimore County Executive. He is a Baltimore County native who has served on the Baltimore County School Board and the county's Workforce Development Board.

Kathy Klausmeier

The current Baltimore County Executive, serving the last two years of a term vacated by Johnny Olszewski after he was elected to Congress.

Izzy Patoka

A Democratic candidate for Baltimore County Executive, currently serving as a County Councilman.

Julian Jones Jr.

A Democratic candidate for Baltimore County Executive, currently serving as a County Councilman.

Pat Young

A Democratic candidate for Baltimore County Executive, currently serving as a County Councilman.

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What they’re saying

“This campaign is about making Baltimore County work for everyone. Families are leaving because it's too expensive to live here, and they don't think we can fix it. We're the only campaign with an actual plan to deliver on housing, childcare, energy and much more — all while restoring trust. I'm running because we need a fresh start.”

— Nick Stewart, Democratic Candidate for Baltimore County Executive (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

The Democratic primary election is scheduled for later this year, where Stewart will face off against the other Democratic candidates.

The takeaway

Nick Stewart's campaign for Baltimore County Executive represents a push for a more affordable, inclusive, and modern county government that can address the needs of all residents. His focus on issues like housing, childcare, and economic development sets him apart from the other candidates and could resonate with voters seeking a fresh approach to local leadership.