Get to know the faces behind the ballots! Over the next few weeks, we’re bringing you an exclusive look at the Prince George’s County Council candidates. We asked each candidate eight essential questions about their vision and the local issues they are fighting for.

Meet Keith Washington, a candidate who wants to draw a line in the sand against “business as usual” in Prince George’s County. With a platform rooted in the protection of seniors, the empowerment of union labor, and a commitment to Black-owned and small businesses, he is running for Council member At-Large to ensure that the county’s rapid growth doesn’t leave its lifelong residents behind.

1. What is your primary motivation for running for local council, and what are your top three priorities for the district?

I’m running because too many people in Prince George’s County feel like they’re being left behind while insiders and big developers keep winning.

My top three priorities are:

• Protecting seniors and homeowners from rising costs and overdevelopment
• Putting working people first—good union jobs, fair wages, and local hiring
• Restoring trust in government through transparency and accountability

This campaign is about putting people over politics—and residents over special interests.

2. How do you plan to support local small businesses and entrepreneurs within Prince George’s County?

For too long, “economic development” has meant giveaways to big corporations while small businesses struggle.

I will:

• Fight for local hiring requirements and union labor agreements
• Prioritize Black-owned, minority-owned, and small businesses for county contracts
• Stop handing out tax breaks with no real return for residents
• Create real pathways for entrepreneurs—not just promises

If a company comes into Prince George’s County, they should hire our people, pay fair wages, and invest in our community—period.

3. How will you ensure that the voices of all residents, especially those in underrepresented areas, are heard in the decision-making process?

People are tired of being ignored until election time.

I will:

• Hold regular town halls in every part of the county—not just the wealthy areas
• Work directly with churches, senior groups, and civic associations
• Create a system where residents can track votes and hold elected officials accountable

Your voice won’t just be heard—it will matter in every decision I make.

4. What specific improvements do you advocate for regarding local infrastructure, public safety, or transit?

Let’s be honest—some neighborhoods get attention, and others get neglected.

I will fight for:

• Safe streets and real public safety solutions, not just talk
• Faster emergency response times, especially for seniors
• Road repairs and infrastructure investment in overlooked communities
• Reliable public transit for working families and seniors on fixed incomes

Every taxpayer deserves the same level of service—no exceptions.

5. What steps should the council take to promote environmental sustainability and green spaces in our community?

We can protect the environment without hurting working families.

I support:

• Expanding parks and green spaces for families and seniors
• Investing in clean energy jobs that create union opportunities
• Holding developers accountable for responsible, community-friendly growth

No more development that benefits a few while hurting the many.

6. How can the council better support local youth programs and educational initiatives outside of the school system?

If we don’t invest in our youth, we pay for it later.

I will:

• Expand after-school programs and mentorship through churches and community groups
• Create job training pipelines with unions and local businesses
• Support programs that keep young people safe, productive, and on the right path

We need to give our young people opportunity—not excuses.

7. What is one specific project or policy you hope to be remembered for at the end of your term?

I want to be remembered as the leader who stopped the giveaways, stood up to special interests, and made sure regular people—seniors, workers, and homeowners—finally got a fair deal.

8. What is your favorite local spot in Prince George’s County to relax or grab a meal?

One of my favorite places to relax in Prince George’s County is National Harbor or Bowie Bay Sox game—it reminds me of the potential our county has when development is done right and benefits everyone and I truly love baseball.