UPPER MARLBORO, Md. - Marylandian -- Wala Blegay, a progressive Democrat and Prince George's County Council Member, will formally announce her candidacy for Congress in Maryland's Fifth Congressional District on Tuesday, February 4. She enters the race following Congressman Steny Hoyer's announcement that he is retiring, stepping down after more than 45 years of service.

Blegay, widely viewed as a leading contender with the most name recognition, pledges to be a relentless fighter for the district. "I will fight for you," she states. "Bringing a fierce voice on your behalf is in my DNA— I am not afraid to fight for federal workers and healthcare, and I have always been a fighter for the community I serve." Deeply engaged and in touch, Blegay's campaign will focus on charting a new path for working- and middle-class families facing rising costs and economic uncertainty. The daughter of immigrant parents from West Africa, Blegay began her public service career as a caseworker in Congressman Steny Hoyer's office, helping constituents navigate federal agencies and working on key issues like the implementation of the Affordable Care Act.

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"Congressman Steny Hoyer exemplifies unwavering commitment and a legacy of service," Blegay said. "My time in his office taught me that public service must be rooted in accessibility, compassion, and respect. "After Capitol Hill, Blegay became an attorney advocating for nurses and workers, fighting for fair wages, safe staffing, and labor protections.

She now serves as an At-Large Member of the Prince George's County Council, where she has championed healthcare access, workforce development, and community investment—including establishing the Emergency Room Wait Time Task Force and advancing a Food as Medicine initiative. If elected, Blegay will prioritize affordability, healthcare costs, and robust protections for the federal workers and contractors vital to Maryland's economy.

Her campaign launches with expected endorsements from Prince George's County, Maryland, County Executive Aisha Braveboy, Prince George's County, Maryland, Council Chair Krystal Oriadha, and several other current Prince George's County, Maryland Council members. The public announcement event will be held on Wednesday, February 4, with doors opening at 9:15a.m. and the program beginning at 10 a.m., at 13905 Central Ave., Upper Marlboro, Maryland, 20774. For more information, please click here or visit: walablegay.com