Segment #3 — Elections, Primaries, and Why the Real Fight Happens Early

Cecil County News – Investigative Desk

This article is part of the ongoing investigative series, “Cecil County Under the Microscope,” which examines how governance, elections, and institutional power operate in Cecil County — and why the same outcomes often repeat.

Why So Many Elections Feel Decided Before November

Many voters in Cecil County believe the most important election is the general election in November. In practice, that is often not the case. For years, the real contest for power has occurred much earlier — during primary elections.

Cecil County has a long-standing Republican registration advantage. As a result, candidates who win the Republican primary frequently go on to win the general election, regardless of turnout or opposition later in the year.

A Real Example: The 2024 Republican Primary

The May 14, 2024 Republican primary offers a clear example of how power is often decided before November.

In the County Executive race, Republican Adam Streight defeated incumbent Danielle Hornberger in the primary, securing the party’s nomination. Given Cecil County’s consistent Republican advantage in general elections, the outcome of this primary effectively determined the general election result months in advance.

In Council District 5, the Republican primary was also closely contested, with Dawn Branch winning by a narrow margin. That intra-party contest — not the general election — was where voters had the greatest opportunity to influence who would represent them.

These races illustrate how, in Cecil County, the most consequential electoral decisions often happen during the primary, when turnout is lower and fewer voters are paying attention.

Closed Primaries and the Illusion of Choice

Maryland operates under a closed primary system, meaning only voters registered with a political party may vote in that party’s primary.

In a county where one party holds a strong registration advantage, closed primaries concentrate decision-making power into a smaller group of voters months before the general election.

Why This Matters to You

When leadership is effectively chosen during primaries, many voters unknowingly miss the most important part of the process. This helps explain why people feel disconnected or frustrated after general elections — the outcome was often already decided.