06/22/2026
A friendly reminder as you head to the polls tomorrow to support candidates who have supported the volunteer fire and EMS service.
"It is imperative that we support candidates who support the volunteer fire and EMS services of Allegany and Garrett counties. As a reminder, these are the candidates our association has endorsed because we believe they will best represent and advocate for the interests of our first responders and the communities they serve. Additionally, voting is both a privilege and a civic responsibility. We encourage everyone to head to the polls tomorrow and make their voices heard."
— Jonathan Dayton, President of the Association
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 12, 2026
Allegany Garrett Counties Volunteer Fire Rescue Association Announces 2026 Election Endorsements
The Allegany Garrett Counties Volunteer Fire Rescue Association (AGCVFRA) is proud to announce its endorsements for the 2026 election cycle.
The AGCVFRA serves, promotes, advocates for, and represents the interests of the volunteer fire, rescue, and emergency medical services personnel of Allegany and Garrett counties. As an organization representing volunteer emergency responders throughout the region, the Association carefully evaluates candidates based on their commitment to public safety, support for volunteer emergency services, and willingness to work collaboratively with the fire and EMS community.
While there are numerous candidates and offices on this year's ballot, the Association's Executive Committee—which represents member departments from across Allegany and Garrett counties—voted during a meeting held in August to endorse Dave Morgan for Sheriff of Allegany County.
Dave Morgan brings extensive law enforcement experience, strong leadership, integrity, and a proven work ethic. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated a collaborative approach when working with volunteer fire, rescue, and EMS organizations. The Association believes his commitment to partnership and public safety will continue as Sheriff of Allegany County.
More recently, during the Association's Annual Convention, delegates representing member departments voted to endorse three additional candidates based upon their track record of supporting the Association and volunteer emergency services.
Those endorsements include:
The Honorable Mary Beth Pirolozzi for Register of Wills for Allegany County
Dawne D. Lindsey for Clerk of the Circuit Court for Allegany County
Senator Mike McKay, representing Garrett County, Allegany County, and portions of Washington County
The Association cited each candidate's history of supporting volunteer fire, rescue, and EMS services as a key factor in its endorsements.
In particular, Senator Mike McKay has been a strong advocate for volunteer emergency services in Annapolis. As Chairman of the Maryland Fire-EMS Coalition, Senator McKay has consistently worked to advance legislation benefiting volunteer responders and has fought for increased funding, enhanced benefits, and greater recognition of the critical role volunteers play in protecting Maryland communities.
"The volunteer fire and EMS service relies on strong partnerships with elected officials who understand the challenges facing our departments and the importance of supporting volunteers. These endorsements reflect the confidence our member departments have in candidates who have demonstrated a commitment to public safety and to the men and women who serve their communities."
The AGCVFRA thanks all candidates who have stepped forward to serve and wishes them success throughout the election process.
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