Retired Army Colonel Mike Rogers, a two term Delegate in the General Assembly, has announced his run for US Congress to represent the Third District. The seat is currently occupied by Jon Sarbanes who announced in the Fall that he will not seek re-election.
Rogers, who lives in Laurel, is perhaps the best known candidate in a growing field. Rogers spent several years as a board member for his HOA, served as PTSA President for Fort Meade High School, served as a football coach for the Severn Seminoles, and is an active member of Phi Beta Sigma. Rogers' candidacy for office got a major endorsement today from Democrats Serve, a national organization which supports former veterans for office. The organization cited Rogers' deep and broad community service, in addition to his 29 years of service in the military, as the reason for its endorsement. "Public service isn't just a job for Mike; it's his way of life," said Brett Broesder, Executive Director, Democrats Serve.
Rogers is hosting his "Big Canvass" kickoff tomorrow, January 6, 2024, to mark the third anniversary of the deadly Capitol Insurrection. Rogers said that tomorrow is a solemn occasion but that it's also an important day to go door-to-door to remind our neighbors about what's at stake during this year's election. "I've invested so much time volunteering in our communities because it is a very important function in a healthy Democracy. Civic involvement as a PTSA President help make our school betters. Coaching kids in football helps build important skills that lead to success in school and the workplace. Everything I do in this election is about protecting our right to vote. Too many people have made great sacrifices for the right to vote which is under attack. Protecting our vote helps us fight for women's rights, civil rights, for better services for our veterans, and better schools for our children. To quote our ancestors, 'we ain't gone let nobody turn us around" said Rogers. Rogers added that he took a solemn oath to defend this country and that he will continue to do so as a United States Congressman.
Rogers has touted the endorsement of several major leaders including County Council Chair Pete Smith, former County Council Chair Sarah Lacey, Delegate Shaneka Henson, and Anne Arundel County Sheriff Everett Sesker as evidence of broad support for his Congressional bid.
Pete Smith, a fellow veteran, says that Rogers is by far the better candidate in the race. "I've seen Mike raise funds for neighbors going through a medical crisis. I've seen Mike fly across the country to congratulate and thank a fellow veteran for their service. I've seen Mike mentor youth through hard times. As a retired Army colonel, Mike has consistently shown his dedication to our country and to Maryland, " said Smith.
Rogers added that he feels very good about where this campaign is headed. "Veterans across the district are participating in the campaign, our sororities, our fraternities, people I've coached with, my former PTSA colleagues are supportive and it's just a great start for us," said Rogers.
The "Big Canvass" for Mike Rogers for Congress will take place tomorrow, January 6, 2024 at 7256 Connelley Drive, Hanover, MD 21076 from 10AM to 2PM. Rogers said that light refreshments will be provided for the canvass.