MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MD - Destiny Drake West, a longtime public servant, policy leader, and working mother, today announced her candidacy for Maryland State Senate in District 39, releasing her official campaign announcement video alongside the launch.

West’s campaign is rooted in lived experience and professional leadership, shaped by growing up in a household that relied on public programs and strengthened by years spent working inside government to turn policy into action.

“I wasn’t born into power or privilege,” West said. “I was born into a system where the odds are set early, and too often stacked against working families. I know what it means when public systems work, and I know the harm when they don’t. That’s why I’m running.”

Raised by a young mother, West grew up relying on Medicaid, nutrition assistance, public housing, and public schools. As an adult, she went on to serve in senior federal roles, providing legislative, budgetary, and policy oversight for public investments focused on public health, affordable housing, and economic stability for families.

West also brings direct experience working in Annapolis. She began her public service as a Young Democrat, serving as National Committeewoman for the Young Democrats of Maryland, where she helped strengthen Democratic infrastructure and advocated for youth-centered policy priorities. She later served as a policy officer for then–Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks and as legislative director for the Prince George’s County Senate delegation, helping advance state policy and budget priorities through the Maryland General Assembly.

West says those experiences give her a clear view of the challenges District 39 residents face today.

“After nearly two decades of the same representation, we owe it to ourselves to ask hard questions,” West said. “Are our neighborhoods stronger? Are small businesses thriving? Are families actually getting ahead? Because what I see is the cost of living rising while working households struggle just to keep up.”

She points to rising housing costs, disappearing grocery stores and pharmacies, and growing economic instability as warning signs that families are being pushed to the edge.

The candidate said her decision to run has been shaped by conversations with parents, small business owners, caregivers, and community leaders across District 39 who want leadership that is present, accessible, and rooted in the community.

“I’m running because this district deserves representation that reflects who we are and fights for who we can become,” West said. “Together, we can build a District 39 that works for our families and for future generations.”

The Democratic primary election is June 23, 2026.

Media Contact:
Alina Urena
communications@destinyforthepeople.com