Patrick McLaughlin’s priorities are rooted in listening to local families, protecting our quality of life, and making practical, responsible decisions for Queen Anne’s County.
As a proven, experienced Commissioner, Patrick continues to work every day to support families, strengthen communities, and deliver results for District 2, guided by conservative principles and responsible leadership.
PATRICK'S PRIORITIES FOR QUEEN ANNE'S COUNTY
FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY
Patrick has delivered historic tax relief by keeping Queen Anne’s County’s property tax rate the second-lowest in Maryland. He has held the line with: NO new property taxes, NO new business taxes, and NO new individual taxes. Patrick continues to stand firm against tax and fee increases from Annapolis, fighting to ensure families, seniors, and businesses keep more of what they earn and ensuring government lives within its means.
IMPROVE EDUCATION
Patrick has consistently voted for strong funding to prepare students for real-world success, supporting Career and Technical Education (CTE), skilled trades, STEM programs, and Chesapeake College. He supports students and teachers, but believes spending increases beyond Maintenance of Effort (MOE) must be carefully evaluated to ensure fiscal responsibility for taxpayers. Patrick supports parents’ rights in education and the expansion of school choice, including the current plan for the first Charter School on the Eastern Shore. He is committed to protecting homeschool, private school, and public school families.
RESPONSIBLE GROWTH
Patrick supported a temporary moratorium on large and medium residential developments to slow excessive growth. This does not affect homeowner upgrades, decks, additions, small neighborhood projects, or commercial investments.
Through Adequate Public Facilities (APFO) standards, he works to ensure development matches our roads, schools, and sewer and water infrastructure so growth strengthens communities instead of overwhelming them.
His approach protects property values while preserving the character of Queen Anne’s County. Local voices should always come before outside developers.
MENTAL HEALTH & CRISIS CARE
Patrick supports expanded youth and veteran mental health services, including access to outpatient behavioral health care and crisis intervention programs. He has worked to strengthen partnerships between local agencies, schools, and healthcare providers to ensure families can access timely, compassionate care. His focus is on practical, community-based solutions that save lives and restore stability.
CURB TRAFFIC CONGESTION
Patrick has taken direct action to address local gridlock by sending a formal request to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy requesting temporary county control of MD State Routes 8 and 18 during peak summer weekends. This would allow Queen Anne’s County to manage exits for the benefit of local residents. This approach would protect local neighborhoods from being flooded with bypass traffic while prioritizing residents over cut-through congestion.
PUBLIC SAFETY
Patrick strongly supports Sheriff Hoffmann, local law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMTs, and emergency management teams. He advocates for proper training, modern equipment, and strong coordination between agencies to keep communities safe. He stands with first responders and military veterans who serve with dedication and sacrifice.
INVESTING IN PARKS & REC
Patrick is committed to strengthening our community by enhancing local parks and recreational spaces for families of all ages. Since being elected, Patrick has supported investments in a new skate park, a new dog park, upgrades to Mowbray Park, new pickleball courts on Kent Island and in Church Hill, and additional park improvements across the county. These projects ensure residents have safe, high-quality spaces to gather, play, and stay active.
Proven Leadership. Compassionate Conservatism.
Patrick McLaughlin remains committed to fighting for Queen Anne’s County families, farmers, and our future.