THANK YOU! I am deeply appreciative of your support during the special Primary Election. We won out over our competitors and special interest funding. Our volunteers worked very hard, and campaigning was a "family affair" once again. I look forward to the May 13 General Election and becoming your Councilmember for District 4.

Download a PDF flyer for the General Election here. Feel free to duplicate it and distribute it widely throughout District 4!

A few months ago, I never would have dreamed about running for office.

But when I looked at the candidates running to replace my wife Marilyn Praisner, I just did not see a strong voice to protect Marilyn's priorities in the race. That's why I decided to run for County Council. My family and I understood it's what Marilyn would want me to do.

I saw that, unless I ran, Marilyn's legacy of fiscal prudence, managing growth, strong support for public education and protecting our community's environment would be threatened. When the Council split 5-4 on important policies, hers was the fifth vote in favor of people over powerful private interests. Without that fifth vote, I worry about the future of this county.

My opponents say it's time for a change -- but Montgomery County residents already voted for change in 2006, when they elected a majority of council members committed to sustainable growth. The people of District 4 overwhelmingly endorsed Marilyn's common-sense priorities by an 85% vote in that election. Today, it's time for continuity.

I bring my own experience as a community activist, non-profit leader, a 30 year career in the CIA, and life-long resident of our county to this effort. I will bring my own perspective and experience to bear to protect the good work Marilyn achieved in her lifetime and complete the projects I know she cared about most.

But I still need your help to win the general election on May 13th. We cannot take this election for granted. Let's finish the job we all started with a great win in the Democratic primary. Please join with me today and help reach out to District 4 by volunteering in our campaign and by contributing as generously as you can.

Thank you for your support. I also thank the Montgomery County Federation of Teachers, Montgomery Green Democrats, and the Montgomery County Volunteer Fire Rescue Association for their endorsements during the primary election. Together we can protect Marilyn's legacy and preserve the quality of life here in District 4 and across Montgomery County.

Sincerely,

Don Praisner