A Fierce Advocate for Affordability, Healthcare, and Federal Workers, Wala Blegay Steps Up to Answer the Call
UPPER MARLBORO, MD: Wala Blegay officially announced her candidacy for Congress in Maryland’s Fifth Congressional District on Tuesday, February 4, during a public event held at Evangel Cathedral in Upper Marlboro. A progressive Democrat and Prince George’s County Council Member, Blegay is seeking the seat following Congressman Steny Hoyer’s announcement that he will retire after more than 45 years of service.
Blegay, widely viewed as a leading contender with the most name recognition, pledges to be a relentless fighter for the district. “I will fight for you,” she states.
“Bringing a fierce voice on your behalf is in my DNA- I am not afraid to fight for federal workers and healthcare, and I have always been a fighter for the community I serve.”
Deeply engaged and in touch, Blegay’s campaign will focus on charting a new path for working- and middle-class families facing rising costs and economic uncertainty.
The daughter of immigrant parents from West Africa, Blegay began her public service career as a caseworker in Congressman Steny Hoyer’s office, helping constituents navigate federal agencies and working on key issues like the implementation of the Affordable Care.
“Congressman Steny Hoyer exemplifies unwavering commitment and a legacy of service,” Blegay said.
“My time in his office taught me that public service must be rooted in accessibility, compassion, and respect,” she added.
After Capitol Hill, Blegay became an attorney advocating for nurses and workers, fighting for fair wages, safe staffing, and labor protections. She now serves as an At-Large Member of the Prince George’s County Council, where she has championed healthcare access, workforce development, and community investment-including establishing the Emergency Room Wait Time Task Force and advancing a Food as Medicine initiative.
L-R: Wala Blegay with U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar (left); Blegay at an Emergency Room Wait Time Task Force meeting; and Blegay’s swearing-in to the At-Large Council seat on Jan. 5, 2026. Courtesy of Facebook/Wala Blegay
If elected, Blegay will prioritize affordability, healthcare costs, and robust protections for the federal workers and contractors vital to Maryland’s economy.
Her campaign launches with expected endorsements from County Executive Aisha Braveboy, Council Chair Krystal Oriadha, and several other current Council members.
