Meet the Candidates: District 36 House Delegation

District 36 is fortunate to be represented by a team of experienced, dedicated public servants who understand the unique needs of Maryland's Eastern Shore. Representing Caroline, Cecil, Kent, and Queen Anne's Counties in the Maryland House of Delegates are Delegates Steve Arentz, Jeff Ghrist, and Jay Jacobs—three leaders who bring decades of public service, local government experience, and community involvement to Annapolis.

Together with Senator Steve Hershey, these delegates have worked to advocate for rural communities, strengthen our local economy, protect taxpayers, support agriculture, and preserve the quality of life that makes the Eastern Shore a special place to call home.

Delegate Steve Arentz

Delegate Steve Arentz has represented District 36 in the Maryland House of Delegates since 2013. A lifelong businessman and community leader, Steve previously served as President of the Queen Anne's County Board of County Commissioners, where he helped guide county government through important infrastructure and growth-related issues.

In Annapolis, Delegate Arentz has served on the House Economic Matters Committee, where he has focused on issues ranging from workers' compensation and unemployment insurance to consumer protection and housing policy. He has also served as House Chair of the Queen Anne's County Delegation and previously chaired the Eastern Shore Delegation.

Before entering state government, Steve built a successful career in the private sector as a restaurateur, business owner, and realtor. His experience as both a small business owner and local elected official has given him a practical perspective on the challenges facing Eastern Shore families and employers.

Throughout his public service career, Delegate Arentz has been a strong advocate for economic development, responsible government, and maintaining the unique character of Maryland's rural communities.

Delegate Jeff Ghrist

Delegate Jeff Ghrist has served District 36 in the House of Delegates since 2015. Prior to his election to the General Assembly, he spent nearly eight years as a Caroline County Commissioner, including service as President of the County Commissioners.

A graduate of Salisbury State University with a degree in economics, Jeff brings a strong understanding of budgeting, fiscal responsibility, and local government operations to his work in Annapolis. He serves on the House Appropriations Committee, one of the legislature's most influential committees, where he helps review state spending priorities and budget decisions.

Delegate Ghrist has also served as Minority Parliamentarian, House Chair of the Caroline County Delegation, and a member of several key legislative committees and commissions focused on state personnel oversight, education, transportation, and government accountability.

Known for his thoughtful approach to policymaking and his commitment to rural Maryland, Jeff continues to be a strong voice for taxpayers, local communities, and the Eastern Shore way of life.

Delegate Jay Jacobs

Delegate Jay Jacobs has represented District 36 since 2011 and is one of the most recognized local government leaders on Maryland's Eastern Shore. Before joining the House of Delegates, Jay served as Mayor of Rock Hall for more than a decade and spent years working on local planning, economic development, and community initiatives.

In Annapolis, Delegate Jacobs serves on the House Environment and Transportation Committee, where he works on issues affecting agriculture, natural resources, transportation, and local government. He also serves as Chair of the House Republican Caucus and has held leadership roles within several county and regional delegations.

Jay's commitment to community service extends well beyond elected office. A small business owner, volunteer firefighter, ambulance driver, and longtime supporter of local organizations, he has spent decades serving Kent County and the broader Eastern Shore community.

His extensive involvement in agriculture, environmental stewardship, and local governance has made him a respected advocate for rural Maryland and the people who live and work here.

A Strong Team for the Eastern Shore

Delegates Arentz, Ghrist, and Jacobs each bring unique experiences and perspectives to Annapolis, but they share a common commitment to serving the people of District 36. Their backgrounds in local government, business, agriculture, and community service have helped shape a delegation focused on practical solutions and strong representation for Maryland's Eastern Shore.

Working alongside Senator Steve Hershey, they continue to advocate for the priorities that matter most to our communities: economic opportunity, responsible government, strong schools, safe communities, and preserving the values that make the Eastern Shore such a remarkable place to live, work, and raise a family.