After serving as a member of the Maryland General Assembly for 13 years, Senator Ariana B. Kelly (D-Montgomery) has announced her departure from the Senate, effective May, to assume the role of executive director of the Maryland Commission for Women. Kelly was enthusiastic about the new opportunity, emphasizing her lifelong dedication to advocating for women, children, and families.
During her tenure in the General Assembly, Kelly has been a prominent advocate for women’s issues. She played a pivotal role in addressing sexual harassment within the legislature and led efforts to pass an amendment to the Maryland Constitution safeguarding access to abortion.
Senator Cheryl C. Kagan (D-Mongtomery) praised Kelly’s dedication and effectiveness in advocating for important issues, citing her significant contributions during her brief tenure in the Senate.
Kelly’s transition to the Senate in February 2023 involved assuming a seat on the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee, which contrasted with her previous work on the House Health and Government Operations Committee.
Despite expressing some fatigue or frustration with her legislative duties in recent social media posts, Kelly emphasized her gratitude for her profound experience in the legislature.
In her new role, Kelly will succeed Judith Vaughan-Prather as the executive director of the Maryland Commission for Women. There, she will continue advocating for equitable and inclusive policies for women and girls.
Kelly’s departure adds to the exodus of Montgomery County lawmakers from the General Assembly, prompting discussions about the process of filling vacancies. Legislation is underway to reform this process, with Senate Bill 29 proposing special elections to fill future vacancies.
Del. Sara Love (D) has been suggested as a potential replacement for Kelly in District 16, receiving praise from Kelly herself. Love expressed her readiness to step into the role, highlighting Kelly’s remarkable contributions and confidence in continuing the advocacy for Maryland’s women and families.
If Love is appointed to the Senate, it would create a vacancy in the House, potentially filled by Del. Sarah Wolek (D), who currently represents District 16, or by Marc Korman (D), the third delegate from the district.