SOUTHERN MARYLAND — Democratic congressional candidate Wala Blegay says healthcare affordability, infrastructure investment and stronger advocacy for working families are among the priorities driving her campaign for Maryland’s 5th Congressional District, according to a recent appearance on “Get Real With Southern Maryland Politics” hosted by Chris Hill.
Blegay, currently a member of the Prince George’s County Council, said she decided to seek federal office because of what she sees as growing economic pressures facing residents throughout Southern Maryland and the nation.
“We are in precarious times,” Blegay said, pointing to rising costs, federal workforce reductions and economic uncertainty.
She described herself as a lifelong advocate whose interest in public service began at an early age through community activism with her parents and later expanded through work in government, law and labor advocacy.
According to her campaign website, Blegay’s platform focuses on economic opportunity, healthcare access, workers’ rights and protecting public investments in local communities.
Healthcare Advocacy Shaped Her Career
A significant portion of the conversation focused on healthcare, an issue Blegay said has influenced much of her professional life.
Before serving on the Prince George’s County Council, Blegay worked as a labor attorney representing nurses and advocating for workplace protections and healthcare improvements.
She also shared a personal experience receiving a large medical bill as a young adult, which she said helped shape her views on healthcare reform.
“I wanted to change a broken healthcare system,” Blegay said while discussing her work on healthcare policy and efforts related to the Affordable Care Act.
Blegay argued that rising deductibles, insurance costs and limited access to care continue to create challenges for many families.
Calling For Stronger Congressional Leadership
When asked about the challenges she would face if elected, Blegay emphasized the need for stronger advocacy in Congress.
“The biggest issue that we have is we need a Congress with a backbone,” she said. “A Congress that’s willing to fight for us.”
Blegay expressed concerns about federal spending priorities, workforce reductions and economic insecurity, particularly among younger generations.
She cited concerns surrounding retirement security, student loan debt and the rising cost of living as issues that require greater federal attention.
“We need an unbought Congress that can focus on taking care of the people,” Blegay said.
Southern Maryland Infrastructure Remains A Priority
The discussion later turned to issues affecting Southern Maryland, including transportation and infrastructure.
Blegay identified infrastructure improvements as one of the region’s most pressing needs, specifically referencing transportation challenges throughout St. Mary’s County and surrounding communities.
“One number one issue in all of Southern Maryland is infrastructure,” Blegay said.
She pointed to roadway improvements, stormwater systems and long-discussed concerns surrounding the Gov. Thomas Johnson Bridge connecting St. Mary’s and Calvert counties.
“It’s time for focus on infrastructure,” Blegay said.
Blegay said federal investment programs could help local governments address transportation and utility challenges while supporting economic growth.
Supporting Military Communities And Small Businesses
Because Maryland’s 5th Congressional District includes communities connected to Naval Air Station Patuxent River, the conversation also touched on support for military installations and related businesses.
Blegay said federal leaders should focus on strengthening local infrastructure and ensuring small businesses that support military communities have access to resources and assistance.
She highlighted programs through the U.S. Small Business Administration and other federal initiatives that can help local employers remain competitive.
She also expressed concern about reductions affecting federal employees and contractors, noting that such changes can have ripple effects throughout Southern Maryland’s economy.
Youth Opportunities And Community Investment
Blegay said one issue she has heard repeatedly from Southern Maryland residents involves opportunities for young people.
“When I’ve heard from people in St. Mary’s, one of the biggest issues is the youth,” she said.
She said additional support for schools, community programs and youth-focused initiatives could help address concerns while improving quality of life throughout the region.
Data Centers And Infrastructure Concerns
The conversation also addressed ongoing debates surrounding data center development in Southern Maryland.
Blegay noted that she previously pushed for a pause on a proposed data center project in Prince George’s County and established a task force to examine potential impacts.
“I started a qualified data center task force,” Blegay said. “We could look into the issue to determine what’s going to happen with data centers.”
She said unanswered questions remain regarding power demand, water usage and environmental impacts.
“What we found is that there are too many unanswered issues,” Blegay said.
Blegay added that many residents feel their concerns have not been adequately addressed in conversations surrounding future development.
Campaign Centered On Advocacy
Closing the interview, Blegay emphasized her record of advocacy and community engagement.
“You need a fighter,” she said while asking voters for their support. “You need a fighter that understands your issue.”
She said her goal is to bring the same advocacy she has demonstrated on the Prince George’s County Council to Congress and ensure Southern Maryland communities have a strong voice in Washington.
About Wala Blegay
According to her campaign website, Blegay is an attorney, labor advocate and member of the Prince George’s County Council. Her campaign focuses on healthcare access, economic opportunity, workers’ rights, infrastructure investment and community advocacy throughout Maryland’s 5th Congressional District.
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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