Key Issues for St. Mary's CountyPublic Safety, Education, Governance, and Taxation

Under John O’Connor’s leadership, public safety will remain the top priority, with unwavering support for the Sheriff’s Office, our Public Safety Dispatchers, EMS, and our volunteer fire and rescue teams. He is committed to ensuring they have the staffing, equipment, and resources needed to respond effectively, protect lives, and keep our communities safe. John understands that strong public safety systems are the foundation of a strong county, and he will stand behind those who serve with the support, respect, and leadership they deserve.

John O’Connor strongly supports State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling and her office in their mission to ensure that justice is served fairly, consistently, and in accordance with the law. He recognizes the critical role the State’s Attorney and her staff play in protecting the community, upholding victims’ rights, and maintaining the integrity of the legal system. John is committed to supporting their efforts through responsible governance and by ensuring that law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies have the resources and cooperation necessary to carry out their duties effectively, reinforcing a justice system that residents can trust and rely on.

Advocating for programs that prepare our youth for success, John is committed to working in partnership with our schools, teachers, parents, and support staff, as well as local businesses, to expand educational opportunities and strengthen career and technical training. He recognizes that educators, families, and school staff all play a vital role in student success and deserve support, respect, and a stable, well-planned budget that allows them to focus on what matters most. By promoting practical pathways for students while maintaining strong academic standards, John will help create an environment where students, teachers, and the entire school community can thrive.

Improving our roads and public facilities is essential, but John places a strong emphasis on enhancing parks and recreation to support the quality of life that makes St. Mary’s County unique. He is committed to investing in well-maintained parks, expanding recreational opportunities for families and youth, and ensuring that public spaces are safe, accessible, and reflective of the community’s needs. By prioritizing thoughtful improvements and long-term planning, John aims to strengthen community wellness, preserve open spaces, and provide residents with places to gather, stay active, and enjoy everything the county has to offer.

John is committed to standing with our farmers and preserving the agricultural backbone of St. Mary’s County. He understands that farming is not just a business, but a way of life that has shaped our community for generations. John will work to protect farmland from overdevelopment, reduce unnecessary regulations, and ensure that local policies support, not hinder, those who work the land. He supports expanding access to local markets, strengthening farm-to-table opportunities, and promoting agricultural innovation so farmers can remain competitive and sustainable. By prioritizing agriculture in planning and economic development, John will help ensure that farming remains a viable, respected, and thriving part of our county’s future.

Strengthen the St. Mary’s County community by championing local businesses, supporting smart and responsible economic growth, and creating meaningful job opportunities that allow residents to live and work right here at home. John is committed to fostering a business-friendly environment by cutting unnecessary regulations, supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs, and attracting investment that strengthens our local economy without overburdening infrastructure or changing the character of our community. His focus is on sustainable growth that increases opportunity, expands the tax base without raising rates, and ensures long-term economic stability for families, workers, and future generations.