Maryland Deputy Minority Whip Charles Otto Dies at 61

Maryland State Delegate Charles J. Otto, a Salisbury native who represented District 38A (Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties) since 2011, has died at age 61; no cause of death has been released. A Republican who served as Deputy Minority Whip since 2013, Otto had just filed for reelection to a fifth term. He was known for deep knowledge of agricultural issues and steadfast advocacy for the Eastern Shore, including recent bipartisan work on a Smith Island broadband project. Leaders from both parties — including House Speaker Adrienne Jones, Gov. Wes Moore, and the House and Senate Republican caucuses — offered condolences, and colleagues such as Del. Jay Jacobs praised his integrity, humility and measured voice. His background included Washington High School, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and Virginia Tech, and colleagues and constituents said his sudden passing has left them devastated as further details await release.