MCVFRA Announces 2026 Primary Election Endorsements
The Montgomery County Volunteer Fire Rescue Association (MCVFRA) today announced its endorsements for the 2026 Democratic Primary Election for Montgomery County Council.
MCVFRA represents the 19 Local Volunteer Fire and Rescue Departments that serve as the volunteer component of Montgomery County’s combined fire and rescue system. The Association’s endorsement process included detailed questionnaires and candidate interviews focused on public safety, governance, funding, and the long-term sustainability of the volunteer fire-rescue system.
“These endorsements reflect candidates who understand the critical role volunteers play in delivering emergency services across Montgomery County and who have demonstrated a commitment to strengthening the combination fire-rescue system,” said MCVFRA President Russell Hartung.
The Association is particularly focused on ensuring predictable funding for volunteer departments, strengthening recruitment and retention of volunteers county-wide, and maintaining a strong and effective partnership between career and volunteer personnel.
The 2026 election cycle presents a pivotal moment for Montgomery County, with significant turnover expected across County leadership. MCVFRA’s endorsements are based on candidates’ knowledge, experience, and commitment to ensuring a strong, sustainable, and well-supported fire-rescue system.
MCVFRA Endorsements
County Executive: Andrew Friedson (previously endorsed)
County Council – At Large: Marc Elrich, Jeremiah Pope, Scott Goldberg, Karla Silvestre
County Council – District 1: Julie Yang
County Council – District 2: Marilyn Balcombe
County Council – District 3: Jud Ashman
County Council – District 4: Kate Stewart
County Council – District 5: No Endorsement
County Council – District 6: Natali Fani-González
County Council – District 7: Dawn Luedtke
MCVFRA evaluates candidates on vision, effectiveness, and demonstrated commitment to public safety and the volunteer fire-rescue service.
“Our volunteers respond to thousands of emergency calls each year and are an essential part of Montgomery County’s public safety infrastructure,” Hartung added. “We look forward to working with these candidates as they are elected to ensure the continued strength and effectiveness of our system.”
Contact:
Russell Hartung, President – president@mcvfra.org
Christopher Jennison, Board Member & Communications Chair – christopher.jennison@bccrs.org
Montgomery County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association – www.mcvfra.org