A ballot initiative in Montgomery County is seeking to prevent County Executive Marc Elrich from seeking a third term. The initiative, led by a group called Stop Elrich Now, aims to amend the county’s charter to limit the County Executive to two terms in office.
Elrich, a Democrat, was first elected as County Executive in 2018 after serving as a member of the County Council for 12 years. His supporters argue that he has been a champion for progressive policies and has effectively managed the county’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, critics, including some within his own party, have accused Elrich of being out of touch with the needs of the county and failing to effectively address issues such as affordable housing and transportation. They believe that term limits are necessary to ensure new leadership and fresh ideas in the county government.
If the ballot initiative is successful, Elrich would be prohibited from running for a third term in 2022. Supporters of the initiative have until July 13 to collect the 12,573 signatures needed to place it on the ballot.
Elrich has not yet commented on the initiative, but his spokesperson has stated that he is focused on continuing to serve the residents of Montgomery County to the best of his ability.
The outcome of the initiative could have significant implications for the county’s political landscape and the future direction of its government. Residents will have the opportunity to weigh in on the issue and decide whether they believe Elrich should be limited to two terms as County Executive.
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