By Adam Pagnucco.
Last week, I wrote a series about how County Executive Marc Elrich’s government staff was working to save him from a term limits charter amendment that would eject him from office. That activity complements other efforts on his behalf, including a new ballot issue committee, support from the teachers union and inclusion on the Democratic sample ballot.
Now, Elrich’s supporters are convening to discuss how to help him further. The email below was sent by long-time Democratic activist Sam Statland, who has previously aided Team Elrich in fighting term limits, to a group of “loyal Marc supporters.” Most were blind-copied with the exception of Debbie Spielberg, who is one of Elrich’s special assistants in county government. In the email, Statland discusses strategies for protecting Elrich.
Private email and home addresses have been redacted.
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From: Samuel Statland
Sent: Wednesday, September 18, 2024
To: Debbie Spielberg
Subject: Meeting Clarification with Marc- October 1 6pm
Loyal Marc Supporters
The purpose of the meeting at my house, on October 1 at 6 pm, is to meet with Marc, and discuss a strategy to defeat the Republican ballot initiative which will prevent Marc from running for a third term in 2026. (Vote no on “A”)
Since this initiative was first proposed, we have succeeded in securing a “vote no on “A” endorsement from prominent Democratic organizations throughout the county.
We loyal Marc supporters, a group of about 20, have met at my house in the past and developed a strategy to help elect Marc. Now we need to develop a strategy to defeat “A.” You have been an important member of this group, and are needed again.
Enacting any kind of a political strategy involving a Publicaly Funded Candidate, like Marc, requires specific compliance with Federal Laws, State Laws, and MD State Party rules. To say it is difficult is an understatement. We want to explain them to you.
To defeat “A” we need to explain to voters what Marc’s accomplishments have been for the citizens of Montgomery County. Marc will inform us of what he has done and plans to accomplish in his third term.
The bottom line is: Please loyal Marc supporter come to this meeting. Sandwich’s, salad, something sweet, and drinks will be served.
Please let me know if you are coming. I need a food count.
Looking forward to seeing you,
Sam Statland
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I asked Statland for a statement describing his plans to oppose term limits. As of this writing, he has not responded.