Montgomery County Councilmember Andrew Friedson officially conceded the Democratic primary for Montgomery County Executive on Sunday, one day after the latest unofficial election results showed Montgomery County Councilmember Will Jawando leading the race with 44,767 votes (40.07%), compared to Friedson’s 38,117 votes (34.11%).
With all 257 election day precincts reporting and additional mail-in ballots counted, Friedson said it had become clear there were not enough outstanding ballots remaining to change the outcome. “After allowing two additional days to count the outstanding mail-in ballots to respect the process and ensure every voice is heard, it has become clear that there are not enough remaining votes to change the outcome of this election,” Friedson said in a statement.
Friedson said he spoke with Jawando to congratulate him on his successful campaign and offered his support as the Democratic nominee. “We are all deeply invested in our County’s success, and that is all I have ever wanted for the only place I have ever called home,” Friedson said. “A community that is affordable, economically competitive, and guided by a government that truly works for the people it serves.”
Reflecting on his campaign, Friedson said he was proud that his team helped make affordability and economic competitiveness central issues throughout the race. “When we launched this campaign, we set out with a clear, urgent vision: to build a Montgomery County that is truly affordable, accessible, and full of opportunity for everyone who calls it home,” he said.
Friedson also thanked his wife, Demi, their daughter Joelle, his family, volunteers, supporters, and campaign staff for their support throughout the campaign.
Jawando declared victory Friday, thanking supporters after it became apparent he had secured enough votes to win the Democratic nomination. “We did it!” Jawando said. “I am so proud, humbled, and beyond grateful to be your Democratic Nominee for County Executive. This win belongs to every single one of you.” He thanked volunteers, supporters, and campaign staff, adding, “We built this together. But this isn’t the finish line. It’s the start of the work ahead.”
Earlier in the week, Councilmember Evan Glass also conceded the race. In a statement, Glass said he had been closely monitoring the election results and, “as a former CNN journalist, I know when the hill is too steep to climb.” He thanked his volunteers, donors and supporters, saying his campaign’s work on housing affordability, education and protecting vulnerable residents would continue beyond the election.
Jawando will now face Republican nominee Esther Wells in the November general election to determine Montgomery County’s next County Executive.
