Editor’s note: More than a dozen Democrats and Republicans are running in the May 14 primary election to be their party’s nominee in the race for the 6th Congressional District seat now held by Rep. David Trone (D), who is running for the U.S. Senate. MoCo360 is running profiles of the candidates based on questionnaire answers submitted for our voters guide. Beginning with the Republican candidates, a profile will be published every weekday until the May 2 start of early voting.
Today’s profile features Republican candidate Brenda Thiam.
Brenda Thiam
Party: Republican
Age: 54
Residence: Hagerstown
Education: North Carolina Central University; University of Maryland, master’s of education; Capella University, doctor of philosophy
Current/most recent role: Former state delegate (District 2B), special education teacher
Previous political experience: state delegate (District 2B), deputy minority whip, president of Commission for Women, Washington County
Campaign website: https://brendathiam.com/
Why are you running?
I’m running because I don’t recognize our country anymore. I can no longer sit idly by and witness our country going in the direction it’s going. I must work collaboratively with others who seek better solutions to help our country get back on track and champion common-sense policies.
I would sponsor and/or co-sponsor legislation to help our seniors; sponsor legislation to support law enforcement; and sponsor legislation to improve our economy (i.e., additional tax credits for parents). I will also pursue funding for projects that will help identify better solutions for the opioid crisis in western Maryland counties. I will focus on ensuring parents are the key players in their student’s education.
What district-specific issues are you most passionate about and how would you use your platform to address them?
The opioid crisis is still a major problem in my district, specifically Washington County. I will invite key representatives to visit my district to meet with leaders who are trying to combat this problem. Also, Garrett County is experiencing housing challenges and a poor economy. I will meet with stakeholders and identify ways to partner with businesses to consider investing in that area of the district. Lastly, traffic conditions are a challenge in Montgomery County. I will meet with transportation leaders to discuss solutions to improve roadways.
What do you think Congress’ role should be when it comes to public schools? What can you do to best support the schools?
Congress should have a limited role in education. I believe we should significantly dial down the role of the Department of Education and pass more responsibilities to the states as well as local school districts. They are the closest form of government to the people. Congress should focus on safeguarding education opportunities and investing in research for best practices in education. Congress should ensure federal laws are adhered to and provide consequences for any acts of discrimination. This is where Congress can make the most positive and impactful change.
How should Congress address crime?
Congress should continue to create laws to ensure there are consequences for those who commit egregious crimes that affect the safety of our communities. Congress should also focus on supporting law enforcement to ensure agencies have the resources they need to keep our communities safe. Any person who infringes upon the constitutional rights of another must be held accountable. That includes healthcare professionals, teachers/educators, counselors, doctors, etc.
How should Congress address gun violence?
Congress has established laws that provide consequences to those who don’t follow the law regarding guns and firearms.
Background checks are required for those who desire to carry a firearm. There’s also a mandatory wait period to obtain the firearm. Congress can provide more resources for those who suffer from mental illness. Often, people who engage in gun violence have a history of mental illness. Therefore, Congress should focus on more resources to help people who have mental health challenges. If there’s a crime committed that involves a gun, Congress can require no plea deals for the alleged criminal.
The Dobbs v. Jackson decision in 2022 that overturned Roe v. Wade has changed the face of reproductive care access across the country. What should Congress’ role be in the abortion conversation?
The Supreme Court of the United States moved this decision back to the states where it belongs. I agree with that decision. It is up to each state to make that decision at the legislative level of government.
The same Supreme Court decision has raised concerns about marriage rights and gender-affirming care access for LGBTQ+ people. How should Congress address this?
I believe marriage is ordained between a man and a woman. I also believe Congress should have a role in gender-affirming care access regarding children and it should be prevented. When the individual is an adult, those decisions can be made at that time, but not if it’s a child.
What should Congress’ role be in addressing a changing climate?
Congress should provide funding that will allow states to plant more trees to help improve our environment. Congress should avoid mandating citizens to only drive one type of car (i.e., electric), but allow people to have choices. Those who choose to drive electric vehicles are free to do so and those who choose to drive a fuel-operated car are free to do so.
Is there anything else you want to share with prospective voters?
As a former state delegate in the Maryland General Assembly who served during Gov. Larry Hogan’s tenure, I’m equipped and ready to serve as your next congresswoman. Annapolis prepared me well for the job and I’m confident I can represent constituents in District 6 and do so with integrity, responsibility, and honesty. I’m willing to work alongside members on the opposite side of the aisle if policies are common-sense policies that will help the greater good of the public and do minimal harm. We must find common ground in the work we do for constituents and be willing to compromise, but not forget our values.
This is the fifth in a series of candidate profiles. Check out the first profile here.