Shaneka Henson Recommended for Maryland Senate Seat

The Anne Arundel County Democratic Central Committee has recommended Delegate Shaneka Henson to fill the vacant District 30 Senate seat, succeeding Sarah Elfreth, who was sworn into Congress. Henson won the position by a narrow 10-9 vote over fellow delegate Dana Jones, and her nomination will be forwarded to Governor Wes Moore for final approval. If appointed, Henson would become the first Black woman to represent Anne Arundel County in the state Senate. The decision followed a contentious selection process that highlighted racial divisions within the committee and the candidates' differing stances on LGBTQ+ and reproductive rights. Henson, a delegate since 2019, has faced scrutiny for a past ethics issue but emphasizes her commitment to community service and inclusivity. Her appointment to the Senate will create another vacancy in the House of Delegates, prompting a similar selection process for her successor.