Previewing Maryland's 6th Congressional District race between Delaney, Parrott

Maryland’s Sixth United States Congressional District encompasses Western Maryland. In addition to Northern Montgomery County, the district also includes Frederick, Washington, Allegany, and Garrett counties. Maryland U.S. Rep. David Trone, D-6th, who has held the seat for about the last six years, ran (and lost a bid) for U.S. Senate, creating an open seat.

Here is a look at the candidates in the 2024 election:

April McClain Delaney (D)

April McClain Delaney, 60, a former Biden administration official and the wife of Trone’s predecessor, U.S. Rep. John Delaney, D-6th, is the Democratic candidate.

McClain Delaney said the 6th District requires "more quality employment opportunities" in a March 2024 statement when asked about the top priorities for constituents in Western Maryland. She also said:

• "The Biden jobs program prioritizes "middle out" economic strategies, focusing on infrastructure development, reshoring jobs such as CHIPS manufacturing and leading on climate change through initiatives like IRA. Additionally, it aims to make higher education more accessible and supports regulatory reforms for small business growth."

• "I will advocate for a robust public education system, and endorse initiatives like the Kirwan Commission's recommendations for Maryland education. Ensuring equal opportunities for all children in the district is paramount, as is protecting our natural resources and combating climate change. As a member of Congress, I will invest in the EPA, support a key piece of legislation like the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act, and support our wildlife and national parks."

Neil Parrott (R)

Former state Del. Neil Parrott, 54, who represented Washington County in the General Assembly until 2023, is the Republican candidate.

Parrott called "securing the border" the top priority for Western Maryland and for the country in a March 2024 statement when asked about the top priorities for constituents in Western Maryland. He also said:

• "We also must prioritize lowering the cost of living, which has increased $11,434 annually for an average family since Biden took office.  We can only do this by reducing outrageous government spending and unleashing American energy.  A booming economy and low inflation will bring jobs, new businesses and young families to western Maryland."

• "In addition, as a traffic engineer, I’m particularly interested in improving north/south roadways. We need to increase safety by widening I-81, I-270 and US 219.  Doing this will also improve transportation of goods to and through the area, and will bring more investment and business to western Maryland."

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: Maryland 6th District US Congressional race preview, candidates