Beidle Retiring from Maryland Senate, Endorses Chang as Successor

The longtime state senator will not seek reelection, citing a desire to spend more time with family and pursue personal interests.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Pam Beidle, a Democratic state senator representing Maryland's District 32, announced she will retire at the end of her term and not seek reelection. Beidle endorsed Del. Mark Chang, a fellow Democrat, to succeed her in the Senate.

Why it matters

Beidle's retirement marks the end of an era in Anne Arundel County politics, as she has served in the state legislature since 2007. Her endorsement of Chang sets him up as the frontrunner to win the seat, though he will face a Democratic primary challenger and a Republican opponent in the general election.

The details

Beidle, 74, said she wants to spend more time with her grandchildren and pursue personal interests like traveling, golfing, and joining a book club. She has chaired the powerful Senate Finance Committee since 2023. Chang, a three-term Democratic delegate, said he decided to run for the Senate seat after Beidle informed him of her plans to retire. He cited his experience in budget negotiations and capital planning as preparation for the role, and said he would focus on protecting state investments, assisting families facing economic strain, and addressing affordability issues like housing, groceries, and energy costs.

  • Beidle announced her retirement and endorsed Chang on February 25, 2026.
  • Beidle's term will end in January 2027.

The players

Pam Beidle

A Democratic state senator representing Maryland's District 32 since 2019, who previously served in the state House of Delegates from 2007 to 2019 and on the Anne Arundel County Council from 1998 to 2006.

Mark Chang

A three-term Democratic delegate who represents Maryland's District 32, and who Beidle has endorsed to succeed her in the state Senate.

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What they’re saying

“I'll be 75 in July … I don't want to be that person that people are saying, 'God, she needs to go, you know?' And they do when some people get older, not everybody has the patience and respect. Plus, I have grandchildren that I want to spend time with.”

— Pam Beidle, Retiring State Senator (The Baltimore Sun)

“I carry the same spirit and heart that Sen. Beidle has for the community, and that's really putting the constituents and residents of the 32nd District and state of Maryland first.”

— Mark Chang, Candidate for State Senate (The Baltimore Sun)

What’s next

Chang will face Rev. Stephen Tillett in the Democratic primary in June 2026, with the winner advancing to the November general election against Republican Justin Gallucci.

The takeaway

Beidle's retirement marks the end of an era in Anne Arundel County politics, as she has been a fixture in the state legislature for nearly two decades. Her endorsement of Chang sets him up as the frontrunner to succeed her, though he will face a contested primary and general election.