Blegay Enters Congressional Race

At-Large Council Member Wala Blegay Aims For Higher Seat

Prince George’s County Councilmember Wala Blegay formally launched her campaign for Congress in Maryland’s 5th Congressional District on Tuesday, Feb. 4, entering a race that is expected to reshape the political landscape following the retirement of longtime Congressman Steny Hoyer.

Blegay, a progressive Democrat with deep roots in Prince George’s County, announced her candidacy before supporters in Upper Marlboro, positioning herself as a leading contender based on her name recognition, policy experience, and record of public service. She framed her campaign around affordability, healthcare access, and protections for federal workers and contractors—issues she described as critical to families facing rising costs and economic uncertainty.

During the announcement, who was selected to At-Large Councilmember last December, Blegay emphasized her commitment to being an unyielding advocate for the district. She highlighted her background as the daughter of West African immigrants and reflected on her early career as a caseworker in Hoyer’s congressional office, where she assisted constituents navigating federal agencies and worked on matters tied to the Affordable Care Act.

Following her time on Capitol Hill, Blegay became an attorney representing nurses and workers, focusing on fair wages, safe staffing levels, and labor protections. She later transitioned to elected office and currently serves as an at-large member of the Prince George’s County Council, where she has led initiatives focused on healthcare access, workforce development, and community investment. Her work has included establishing the county’s Emergency Room Wait Time Task Force and advancing a Food as Medicine initiative.

The campaign launch drew strong institutional support, with expected endorsements from Prince George’s County Executive Aisha Braveboy, Council Chair Krystal Oriadha, and several current councilmembers.