Former Maryland Ag secretary running for commissioner

This story appeared on TheBayNet.com on 11/10/2017

Port Republic, MD - A former member of the O'Malley Administration has announced his intention to run for commissioner in Calvert. County native Buddy Hance officially announced his candidacy Wednesday, Nov. 8. Hance's campaign manager, Jamie Tiralla, told TheBayNet.com that Hance, once a member of the Calvert County Democratic Central Committee, is now a registered Republican. Hance has yet to decide if he will run for an at-large or district seat.

Here is the campaign's press release announcing Hance's candidacy.

Earl “Buddy” Hance, a lifelong Calvert County resident, announced his plan to run for the Calvert County Board of County Commissioners Wednesday, Nov. 8.

“As a candidate in this election, I look to bring heightened transparency to the Board of County Commissioners and refocus our leadership on the things that make Calvert County such a desirable place to live, work, and raise a family,” Hance said.

Hance’s message is “Our Calvert, Our Future.” His platform will focus on:
• Accountability of tax dollars to improve Calvert’s communities and residents
• Smart growth with better infrastructure to support Calvert’s demands
• Improving an education system to supports teachers, parents, and students
• Public safety and first responders in our community
• Creating jobs and making Calvert a business-friendly environment
• A commitment to land preservation and protection of natural resources

Campaign supporters gathered in a field that Hance works off Broome’s Island Road in Port Republic to hear the announcement. With the freshly harvested fields in the background, Hance told supporters he is here to listen and as Commissioner would work for positive change. “I am humbled by the support I have so early into my campaign. Hearing from other members of the community is energizing and I look forward to what lies ahead,” Hance said.

Hance said he was motivated to run for commissioner because he wasn’t satisfied with the direction the current leadership is going in. And he said he has heard many other residents say the same.

“As an experienced leader, I have demonstrated the ability to bring people together and solve complex challenges. Calvert County is a place that I am proud to call my home and I want to make sure that future generations can share in that same pride,” said Hance.

Earl “Buddy” Hance is a farmer and lifelong resident of Port Republic. He is the former Maryland Secretary of Agriculture (2009 - 2015) and has served in a number of leadership roles throughout his career. As Secretary of Agriculture, Hance was responsible for 400 employees and a $117 million budget. He has served on numerous boards and commissions throughout the state and as President of the Calvert County and Maryland Farm Bureaus. Hance is married with three children and four grandchildren.