By Adam Pagnucco.
Council Member Andrew Friedson, who is running for county executive, has released his first TV ad. Friedson’s ad follows a TV ad released last week by one of his opponents, Council Member Will Jawando.
Video of the ad is embedded below followed by a press release from Friedson’s campaign.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: John Block
Email: john@andrewfriedson.com
Website: www.andrewfriedson.com
May 06, 2026
Andrew Friedson Launches First Television Ad of County Executive Campaign
“Trust” showcases Friedson’s firefighters’ endorsement and his ability to address the cost-of-living “five-alarm fire”
Wheaton, MD — Today, the campaign of Montgomery County Councilmember and former Council President Andrew Friedson announced the launch of its first television advertisement of the 2026 primary cycle. The ad, titled “Trust,” highlights Friedson’s endorsement by Montgomery County’s career and volunteer firefighters and addresses his plan to address the cost of living crisis and create new jobs by lowering costs and holding the line against tax hikes.
“Right now, in Montgomery County, the cost of living crisis is a five-alarm fire,” said Andrew Friedson. “I am running for County Executive to put out the flames. I will make government work for you by creating new jobs, lowering costs, and holding the line against tax hikes, so your family can actually afford to live here.”
The ad, which began Tuesday airing on cable and streaming TV platforms, emphasizes the support and trust Friedson has earned from Montgomery County’s firefighters.
“Andrew Friedson is a leader who truly understands that our volunteer firefighters are essential partners in keeping Montgomery County safe,” said Rusell Hartung, President of the Montgomery County Volunteer Fire Rescue Association. “He has consistently stood up for our volunteer stations and championed the policies needed to ensure we have modern equipment and the resources required to serve our neighborhoods effectively. We are proud to endorse Andrew because he is a leader we trust to prioritize the entire Fire and Rescue Service system.”
“Andrew understands that true public safety starts with fully staffed fire stations, well-equipped crews, and the efficient delivery of emergency services. This endorsement is not just about supporting a candidate, it’s about standing behind a leader who recognizes the critical need to take decisive action and implement the right solutions for the future,” said IAFF Local 1664 President, Jeff Buddle. “We need a County Executive committed to prioritizing initiatives that modernize our fire and rescue services while significantly improving the working conditions for our firefighters and paramedics. We are confident Andrew will champion forward-thinking policies that safeguard the health, safety, and well-being of our members and the communities we very proudly serve.”
As the first candidate to launch cable TV ads, Friedson is well positioned heading into the June 23 primary. His campaign has already been running digital ads and sending mailers to voters across the county who want our next County Executive to have a proven record of results and a vision to make life more affordable. Friedson has been endorsed by a wide range of community leaders, elected officials, and labor groups – most recently earning the support of Upcounty Councilmembers Marilyn Balcombe and Dawn Luedtke, Former County Executive Doug Duncan, and the majority of Montgomery County State Senators.
For more information about Andrew Friedson’s campaign for County Executive, to get involved, or to follow the campaign, please visit www.andrewfriedson.com.
About Andrew Friedson
Andrew Friedson is currently serving his second term on the Montgomery County Council, where he chairs the Planning, Housing, and Parks Committee and previously served as Council President. A lifelong Montgomery County resident and proud Democrat, Friedson is recognized for his effective leadership on housing affordability, economic development, and fiscal responsibility. Andrew and his wife, Demi, are raising their newborn daughter, Joelle, in Montgomery County, where they were both born and raised.
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