Get Real With SOMD Politics: Dan Thomas Talks Affordability, Energy Costs And His Run For District 27B Delegate

ANNAPOLIS, Md. — On a recent episode of “Get Real with Southern Maryland Politics,” host Chris Hill met with Dan Thomas, a candidate for state delegate in District 27B, for a candid discussion about what prompted his campaign and the issues he believes are driving residents out of Maryland.

Thomas, a longtime Southern Maryland resident who recently retired after more than 15 years with the Department of Defense Inspector General’s office, said his decision to run was sparked by something many Marylanders can relate to: rising everyday costs. He recalled being shocked while renewing his wife’s vehicle registration, which had shifted from a two-year cycle to a more expensive annual fee.

“If you have to go on a payment plan to renew your tags, they know they’re charging too much,” Thomas said, describing the moment he decided to get involved in politics for the first time.

He also pointed to a lack of Republican representation in the district over the past eight years as another motivating factor, though he emphasized that his campaign is not strictly partisan. Thomas said he is seeking support from Republicans, Democrats and independents alike, adding that both major parties have valid ideas — and shortcomings.

“I don’t care what party affiliation you’re with,” he said. “Both sides have good points and bad points.”

Throughout the conversation, Thomas returned frequently to the theme of affordability, arguing that state-level decisions are placing increasing financial pressure on residents. He cited rising vehicle fees, new charges such as a recently implemented paint can fee and what he described as a broader pattern of shifting costs from the state to local governments.

According to Thomas, that dynamic ultimately forces counties to raise taxes, even when state leaders claim otherwise. “They’re not raising taxes, but they’re forcing the counties to raise their taxes,” he said.

Energy costs were another major focus of the discussion. Thomas described dramatic increases in electric bills across the region, sharing examples of residents on fixed incomes struggling with monthly bills exceeding $1,000. He attributed much of the increase to Maryland’s transition away from coal-fired power plants without what he saw as sufficient replacement infrastructure.

Thomas argued that renewable sources like wind and solar alone are not enough to meet demand and suggested the state should explore reopening or converting existing plants to natural gas, as well as investing in newer technologies like small-scale nuclear reactors. He pointed to companies developing microreactors as a potential path forward that could make Maryland an energy producer rather than a consumer.

The conversation also touched on broader frustrations with how resources are allocated at the state level. Both Thomas and Hill discussed concerns that Southern Maryland does not receive a proportional return on the tax dollars it sends to Annapolis, and Thomas emphasized the need for stronger regional advocacy.

When asked how he would be effective in a legislature dominated by a Democratic supermajority, Thomas acknowledged the challenge but said change has to start somewhere. He expressed optimism that there are lawmakers on both sides of the aisle willing to work together on practical solutions.

“It starts with one person,” he said, adding that building cooperation across party lines will be key to making progress.

As the interview wrapped up, Thomas framed his campaign around keeping Maryland affordable and preventing further population loss, noting that many residents are already choosing to leave due to rising costs. Having lived in Southern Maryland since 1984, he said he wants to ensure others are not forced to make that decision.

“I don’t want to move, and I don’t want to see other people that love this area move out,” he said.

Hill closed the segment, as he has throughout the series, by encouraging viewers to stay engaged and participate in the election process.

Watch the full interview below:

About Get Real With Southern Maryland Politics

The interview is part of The BayNet’s new candidate video podcast series, “Get Real With Southern Maryland Politics,” which features conversations with Southern Maryland candidates running for county commissioner, state delegate and state senator.

Upcoming election coverage can be found at https://thebaynet.com/elections.

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