Andrew Friedson has received the endorsement of David Blair, a philanthropist, businessman, and former candidate for Montgomery County Executive. Blair, who lost the Democratic primary to current County Executive Marc Elrich by 77 votes in 2018 and 32 votes in 2022, has put his support behind Montgomery County Councilmember Andrew Friedson, the campaign said today.
Due to term limits that prevent current Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich from running for a third term in 2026, a number of candidates are vying for the Democratic ticket. Real estate investor Mithun Banerjee, current Montgomery County Councilmember (District 1) Andrew Friedson, At-Large Montgomery County Councilmember Evan Glass, medical assistant and gun safety advocate Celeste Iroha, and At-Large Montgomery County Councilmember Will Jawando are among those who have already announced their intention to run.
According to a news release from the Friedson campaign:
Blair, who is well-known for his dedication to practical leadership and employment expansion, emphasized Friedson’s track record of sound financial management and his outlook for the future of Montgomery County’s economy as major factors in his endorsement.
Montgomery County needs a leader with the skills to oversee our $7.6 billion budget and the ambition to expand our economy. We need someone who can transform our common values into significant advancement at this critical juncture. Andrew Friedson is the leader of that group. He has my highest recommendation as our next County Executive! Blair stated.
Since attending a campaign kickoff this past weekend with hundreds of supporters, Friedson has rapidly amassed a sizable coalition of backing from Montgomery County leaders. His campaign aims to increase economic opportunity, make the county more affordable for families, and rebuild public confidence in local government via openness and results-oriented leadership.
“I am extremely honored to have David Blair’s support,” Friedson added. David has been an unwavering supporter of innovation, economic expansion, and a more efficient, welcoming Montgomery County.
As we strive to expand on our vision for our county, I am thankful for David’s support, as he has the business and community perspective we need to create a brighter future. His support is a testament to our campaign’s increasing traction and our shared goal of elevating Montgomery County to the forefront of opportunity, affordability, and sound government.
The campaign’s dedication to bringing Democrats together behind a vision of development and practical problem-solving is further demonstrated by Blair’s endorsement, which joins Friedson’s increasing list of supporters, which already includes prominent state legislators and local leaders. Senators Sara Love, Craig Zucker, Nancy King, and Brian Feldman recently endorsed him.
