Jen Terrasa, a prominent figure in Maryland politics, has announced her decision to run for clerk of the Circuit Court of Howard County, abandoning her campaign for reelection to the Maryland House of Delegates. The 56-year-old Democrat, who has represented District 13 since her election in 2019, is shifting her focus after learning that the current clerk, Wayne A. Robey, will not seek another term.
Terrasa’s political journey has seen her serve 12 years on the Howard County Council, where she represented District 3, which includes areas such as North Laurel and Savage. She first entered public office in 2006, and her extensive experience in local governance has shaped her approach to public service.
Motivation for the Transition
In her announcement, Terrasa expressed a strong desire to explore a new direction in her career. “I love my job as a state delegate, but I feel it’s time to try a different direction,” she stated. With a background in law, she believes her legal expertise aligns well with the responsibilities of the clerk’s office, which includes managing civil, criminal, and juvenile court matters.
The clerk’s office plays a critical role in maintaining public records, processing various legal documents, and issuing licenses. Terrasa emphasized her commitment to ensuring that individuals who enter the courthouse have a positive experience, even in challenging circumstances. “It’s important for people to have faith in government,” she noted, underscoring her goal of fostering transparency and efficiency in government interactions.
Experience and Accomplishments
Prior to her legislative career, Terrasa served as a law clerk in both the Supreme Court of Maryland and the Howard County Circuit Court. Her involvement in community organizations also includes serving on the board of directors for her local homeowners association and Columbia village. Throughout her 12 years on the County Council, she was instrumental in creating the Citizens Election Fund, aimed at reducing the influence of money in politics.
During her two terms in the Maryland General Assembly, Terrasa has worked to enhance tenant rights and advocate for environmental initiatives, such as a proposed bottle deposit system. As she prepares for her candidacy for clerk, she has outlined her priorities, which include ensuring a smooth transition and improving the efficiency of the clerk’s office.
“Being responsive to attorneys, litigants, and anyone else who needs to access the courthouse is crucial,” Terrasa remarked. She aims to foster an environment that prioritizes kindness and effective service delivery within the clerk’s office.
Currently, Terrasa is the sole candidate to have filed for the clerk position, while four individuals are vying for the District 13 delegate position, including Democrats Amy Brooks, Delbert Jackson, Gabriel Maximilian Moreno, and the incumbent Pam Lanman Guzzone. The candidate filing deadline is set for February 24, 2024, with the primary election scheduled for June 23 and Election Day on November 3.
As Terrasa embarks on this new chapter, her extensive background in public service and commitment to community engagement may prove valuable in her pursuit of the clerk’s role.
