AGP Executive Report

Kennedy Center Legal Fallout: Visitors to the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. were left staring at striped tarps after Trump’s name was removed from the facade following a court ruling, with some Maryland-area attendees frustrated the remnants weren’t fully cleared. Severe Weather Watch: A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for much of the Baltimore metro through 11 p.m., with damaging winds, hail, and heavy rain possible. Baltimore Politics: In Baltimore County’s GOP District 5 race, Wade Kach’s endorsement of environmentalist Theaux Le Gardeur over Nino Mangione spotlights land-use and conservation voting records ahead of the June 23 primary. School Press Freedom Fight: Montgomery County student journalists are pushing back on a March memo they say could enable broad censorship of student publications, arguing the standards are vague and lack safeguards. Food Safety Recalls: Alfredo sauce and dairy products sold in the D.C. region, including Maryland, are under expanded recalls tied to Salmonella and possible listeria contamination. Sports with Local Ties: Josh Hart, born in Silver Spring, helped deliver the Knicks’ first NBA title in 53 years—celebrations in New York turned chaotic, including a shooting in Times Square. Infrastructure Update: Maryland’s Highway Administration is planning deck replacements for the Liberty Reservoir bridges on MD-26, with a public meeting set for June 17 in Eldersburg.

Baltimore Public Safety: A Safe Streets violence interrupter, Antoine Burton, was arrested on attempted murder and gun charges, shocking city officials who credited the program with helping drive Baltimore’s recent homicide declines. Local Youth & Community: St. Mary’s County commissioners approved a lease for the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Maryland to run an after-school youth center at Carver Recreation Center in Lexington Park starting Aug. 1. Maryland Immigration Enforcement: ICE is seeking custody of child predators in Maryland and Connecticut, while separate reports highlight renewed scrutiny of ICE actions tied to arrests near a Baltimore school and community pushback. State Politics & Food Security: Attorneys general, including Maryland’s leadership, urged Congress to reverse SNAP cuts in the Farm Bill, warning of rising hunger and added costs for states. Data Centers & Power Strain: Grassroots opposition helped block or delay data center projects worth about $130B in Q1 2026, with Maryland among states seeing major activity. Health & Research: A new study suggests a single dose of psilocybin with support may ease chronic suicidal thoughts for months. Sports (Regional): The Orioles fell to the Padres 9-3, while the Knicks’ title celebration in New York turned chaotic with arrests and gunshots reported in Times Square.

NO FAKES Act: The Senate Judiciary Committee is set to vote June 18 on the NO FAKES Act, which would create new federal protections against unauthorized AI-made voice and likeness replicas—plus two courtroom transparency bills. Maryland Science Center: Gov. Wes Moore marked the center’s 50th anniversary and broke ground on renovations to the Harbor Plaza, tied to a record $15 million fundraising push. Data centers in the spotlight: A major Salem Township proposal would seek zoning changes for a second data-center project worth over $1.2 billion, while national reporting shows data-center fights are increasingly shaping midterm politics. Grocery “surveillance pricing” pushback: A new survey finds most Americans oppose surveillance-based grocery pricing; Maryland already moved to stop the practice. Baltimore ICE at school: DHS says a man arrested outside a Southeast Baltimore school dragged an ICE officer and now faces federal charges, as local officials and advocates continue to dispute the account. Storm damage: A woman died after a tree fell on the Matthew Henson Trail in Aspen Hill; a section of the trail remains closed for cleanup. Cambridge wastewater repairs: Commissioners approved up to $6.86 million to rehabilitate the Trenton Street Sewage Pumping Station after deterioration concerns.

ICE & Schools: ICE arrested two adults outside a Baltimore elementary school during a pre-K graduation, sparking backlash as state and city officials say ICE promised it wouldn’t operate in sensitive locations and Baltimore schools deny coordination. Immigration Enforcement: ICE also issued a detainer in Harford County for an illegal alien charged with rape and sexually abusing a child, with DHS saying local officials will turn him over after he faces justice. Local Courts & Fraud: A former Hyattsville MPD officer was convicted in federal court for allegedly fraudulently taking more than $18,000 in Covid-era disaster relief funds. Public Safety & Community: Parents and activists rallied after the school arrest, while officials disputed ICE’s account of what happened on school grounds. Environment & Economy: Maryland DNR allocated $31.5 million for Chesapeake Bay restoration projects aimed at cutting nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment. Sports: The Orioles opened a series with a 7-3 win over the Padres, while Jacob Misiorowski struck out 15 in a one-hit Brewers win over the Phillies. Business & Travel: St. Mary’s County launched an “Air Show Passport” for the NAS Patuxent River Air Show to boost local spending during June 16-21.

SNAP Fight: Nevada AG Aaron Ford joined a coalition urging Congress to restore SNAP benefits and block Farm Bill cuts, warning hunger is rising and states will be stuck with new costs. ICE at Schools: Parents and officials are reacting to ICE detentions tied to school grounds in Baltimore, with new reporting on how raids ripple through neighborhoods and local economies. Elections Integrity: Maryland’s election board will keep using a print vendor even after wrong-party and duplicate ballots, despite errors affecting hundreds of thousands of voters. Courts & Health Care: A federal judge blocked a Trump rule that created barriers to Affordable Care Act coverage, while immigration courts are shifting toward “mega” master calendar hearings that advocates say speed deportations. Local Government: Montgomery County signed a six-month pause on new data center permits to set clearer rules. Higher Ed Labor: AFSCME protested layoffs at the University System of Maryland, arguing funding exists but priorities are being chosen against workers. Public Safety: A federal grand jury indicted a Baltimore man on firearm charges tied to a domestic-violence incident. Weather Watch: Severe thunderstorm warnings and a watch are in play for the D.C.-Baltimore region, with the strongest activity expected south of Baltimore.

Immigration Enforcement at Schools: ICE arrested two adults during a Baltimore preschool graduation at Commodore John Rodgers Elementary/Middle School, triggering outrage and a sharp response from Gov. Wes Moore, who said Maryland will work with federal law enforcement but not allow actions that “terrorize children” on school grounds. Primary Election Push: Early voting is underway across Maryland for the June 23 primary, with voters in Anne Arundel and Wicomico County using multiple early sites to avoid Election Day congestion. Court Fight Over Voter Records: A federal judge is weighing DOJ efforts to obtain sensitive trans youth medical records nationwide, while Maryland election officials are also in court over access to voter registration data. Statehouse & Local Governance: Worcester County school leaders cut about $2.8 million from the FY27 budget after commissioners reduced funding, forcing cuts to programs and materials. Energy Costs & Oversight: Maryland House leaders urged utility companies to follow the Utility RELIEF Act’s rules after the emergency law took effect, aiming to curb forecast-based bill increases. Business & Growth: KOHO announced $130 million in financing at a $1.33B valuation as it pursues a federal banking license, with a Baltimore investment firm among the backers. Public Safety & Crime: A Baltimore man was charged in the 2022 killing of a 20-year-old after an alleged carjacking, as prosecutors describe a retaliatory violence case. Weather Watch: Severe thunderstorms hit western Maryland with a watch still in effect into the evening, with damaging wind gusts and hail possible.

DEI Contractor Lawsuit: Maryland AG Kwame Raoul joined a coalition of 20 attorneys general suing the Trump administration over “overreach” in rushed federal contract changes aimed at purging DEI, arguing the rules force states to violate antidiscrimination law. Maryland Primary Voting: Maryland election officials are dealing with fallout from a mail-in ballot mix-up that sent voters the wrong party ballots, while early voting begins June 11 and counties are urging people to check guidance so “no vote will be counted twice.” Housing Affordability Debate: Maryland candidates are split between rent stabilization and rent-supply solutions, with lawmakers and challengers arguing over how to fix a crunch that’s hitting families hard. Local Labor Rights in Charles County: Charles County workers are pushing for collective bargaining rights, with officials flagging potential costs tied to the proposed law. St. Mary’s County Cannabis Fund: Commissioners approved a public hearing for a Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund that would route cannabis tax revenue to low-income communities. Public Health & Safety: Coverage highlights lagging rotavirus vaccination rates and ongoing Maryland transportation and law-enforcement safety messaging as summer travel ramps up. Maryland History: Ancient DNA work helped identify the likely remains of a long-missing Maryland colonial governor’s son, returning the bones after more than 300 years.

Economy: Consumer prices rose 4.2% in May, the highest in three years, driven largely by higher energy costs tied to the Iran war—pushing core inflation to 2.9% and dimming hopes for near-term rate cuts. AI & Schools: Maryland is rolling out more structure as AI use in K-12 grows, but districts still vary widely; lawmakers say new statewide guidance and training are meant to close the gap. Responsible AI in Maryland: Gov. Wes Moore named Michael Boyce senior adviser for responsible AI to support state deployment, building on the state’s AI Innovation Lab. Courts & Voting Data: A federal judge questioned DOJ efforts to obtain Maryland’s voter registration database, as Maryland AG attorneys seek dismissal over privacy and misuse fears. Gun Policy & Federal Strategy: A top DOJ official says the administration is pushing Second Amendment cases toward the Supreme Court, aiming to create conflicts between circuits. Local Energy/Tech Fight: Harford County became the first Maryland county to outright ban data centers, citing power demand, bills, and environmental concerns. Sports Broadcasting: Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) says DOJ’s NFL broadcast-rights probe appears designed to help Fox secure a better deal. Health Policy: The federal government’s shift for medical marijuana (Schedule III) may unlock some benefits for businesses, but states still face a patchwork future.

Coal policy and energy costs: The Trump administration announced $850 million for coal plant modernization and new coal capacity, using Cold War-era Defense Production Act authority—promising grid reliability while drawing criticism as an unnecessary subsidy. Local governance and public safety: Maryland is rolling out summer road-safety messaging as the “100 Deadliest Days” period begins, while Baltimore’s audit flags $40M in unpaid bills and collection failures. Education and technology: As AI use in schools grows, Maryland lawmakers and districts are scrambling to set guardrails; a new law requires AI coordinators and statewide teacher training. Courts and civil rights: A coalition asked a Maryland judge to halt Trump’s anti-DEI contractor order, arguing it forces contractors into unconstitutional speech and association tradeoffs. Environment and parks: Maryland is previewing its newest state park at Wetipquin Creek in Wicomico County, the first state park planned for that county. Business and finance: AlphaCore Wealth Advisory acquired Elk River Wealth Management, expanding its advisory team and footprint. Community and health: A grief retreat, “Come S.I.T. Awhile,” is set for July 25 in Pasadena to support women in the community. Sports (Maryland ties): The Orioles lost to the Mariners 6-5 as Seattle’s Randy Arozarena homered in extras, keeping Baltimore in a tough stretch.

Federal Courts & Consumer Protection: A Maryland judge dismissed a preemptive challenge to the FTC’s early online ticketing case, pushing arguments into the FTC’s fight instead of a separate lawsuit. College Sports & Antitrust: A new antitrust suit targets the NCAA’s revenue-sharing cap, arguing it conflicts with state NIL laws in 17 states and could reshape what colleges can pay athletes. Baltimore County Accountability: An unsealed report says a former aide to ex-County Executive Johnny Olszewski “abused his position” by trying to steer an inspector general probe tied to a developer’s tennis-barn plan. State Tech & Energy: Maryland launched an AI Innovation Lab to help agencies test and scale AI tools, while Gov. Moore announced $43M for community solar projects aimed at cutting bills for low-income households. Environment & Public Safety: Northern snakehead “Frankenfish” are spreading in the Chesapeake region, and a proposed 765-kV transmission line study could move through Frederick and Clarke counties. Local Business & Growth: Kimco’s River Rd. redevelopment in Wilton Center cleared minor design changes, with construction expected within 90 days. Food Safety: Clover Hill Dairy recalled requeson soft cheese linked to a listeria outbreak.

Montgomery County Politics: Americans4Hindus backed Andrew Friedson at a June 7 reception, highlighting his agenda on economic development, accountability, public safety, and faith-based community support ahead of the June 23 Democratic primary. Housing & Fairness in Annapolis: Gov. Wes Moore signed major fair-housing changes, including a disparate-impact standard for landlord practices and new limits on refusing tenants who use income-based housing subsidies. Education in Maryland: A new look at math and reading shows Maryland students are paying for a broader national “learning recession,” with proficiency slipping and gaps widening—raising pressure on colleges and K-12 systems. Federal Courts & Immigration: A judge struck down Trump’s proposed $100,000 H-1B fee as unauthorized, a win for skilled workers—while broader immigration enforcement remains a live concern for families and communities. Public Safety: Police reported an officer injured in gunfire in Pikesville, underscoring ongoing violence risks. Health & Research: A large study found no link between semaglutide and higher risk of neovascular AMD, adding clarity for diabetes patients.

Energy & Courts: A federal judge struck down IRS guidance that tightened when wind and solar projects qualify for expiring tax credits, dealing another blow to efforts to curb renewables. Immigration & Policy: A judge blocked Trump’s $100,000 H-1B fee as an unlawful tax, while the Justice Department moved to strip citizenship from 17 naturalized people accused of serious crimes. Maryland Politics & Accountability: Maryland House Republicans criticized Medicaid after an audit flagged improper payments tied to deceased and incarcerated people, plus delayed processing and possible improper charges. Housing & Fairness: Maryland added a disparate impact standard to its fair housing law, aiming to target discriminatory effects even without intent. Public Safety: Baltimore County identified an officer shot on the Milford Mill Gwynn Falls Trail in Pikesville; the officer remains in critical but stable condition. Local Economy: The state approved nearly $7 million in “Build Our Future” grants to expand innovation infrastructure, including clean energy and biotech. Business/Tech: PJM’s grid operator faces calls for reform or breakup as data centers drive higher power costs. Sports & Community: The Y in Central Maryland is pushing “disconnect to reconnect” programs to fight youth loneliness and isolation.

Health Care Activism: A new open letter argues the U.S. health system can’t be fixed with “business as usual,” pointing to medical debt and urging a bigger push for Medicare for All. Maryland Politics: Montgomery County’s District 16 voters finally get a say in a June 23 primary after repeated state seat vacancies were filled by party committee votes instead of residents. Public Safety: Baltimore reported multiple shootings over a violent four-day span, including a triple shooting near W. Cold Spring Lane that left one dead and two injured. Local Business & Tech: A Bowie HVAC contractor says it jumped from low Google visibility to top placement on ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gemini after a digital visibility partnership. Science & History: Maryland researchers used ancient DNA to identify remains tied to a 300-year-old mystery in St. Mary’s City. Sports (Baltimore): The Orioles open a new series after a weekend loss to Toronto that sparked outrage over a controversial call.

Public Safety: A Baltimore County officer was shot while responding to an indecent exposure call on the Milford Mill Road trail in Pikesville; officials say the officer is expected to recover, and the suspect was also injured and taken to a hospital as investigators work the scene. State Government: Gov. Wes Moore signed an executive order creating a Maryland Immigrant Rights Protection Task Force to coordinate responses to fraud, workplace violations, housing scams, and civil-rights concerns affecting immigrant communities. Courts & Food Aid: A federal judge halted enforcement of new SNAP-related conditions tied to gender-ideology, immigration, and women’s sports policy disputes, pausing the restrictions for states and D.C. Local Politics: WTOP published candidate Q&As for D.C. Council at-large and mayor races, spotlighting the June special election field. Community & Culture: Landless Theatre Company brings “EVIL LIBRARIAN” to Bethesda’s Writer’s Center (June 11–21).

Opioid Accountability: Maryland’s opioid settlement dashboard is now live, tracking how the state has collected $245.8M and distributed $170M so far, with projections to reach $747M over the next 12–15 years. Local Cable Competition: St. Mary’s County set a July 14 public hearing on a proposed Verizon cable franchise, using existing fiber-to-the-premises infrastructure in parts of the county. Immigration & Rights: Gov. Wes Moore signed an executive order creating an Immigrant Rights Protection Task Force, drawing both support and skepticism over what it will change. Public Safety & Health: Maryland police warned about a “screw method” gas pump scam, while advocates pushed back on disability website lawsuits as more distraction than lasting accessibility change. Community & Culture: Baltimore kicks off Pride week with events citywide, and Anne Arundel breweries are rolling out limited “America’s 250th” Revolutionary-era beers. Sports (Baltimore): Orioles starter Shane Baz aims to keep his unbeaten record vs. the Blue Jays as the series continues.

Baltimore Politics: Maryland Senate Minority Leader Steve Hershey pushes back on a possible special session for redistricting, warning Democrats could face another legal fight after prior map challenges. Federal Policy & Food Security: The House advances a bill cutting $200 million from WIC, a move that would sharply reduce fruit-and-vegetable benefits for millions of pregnant women, new moms, and young children. Maryland Public Safety: A Towson student was shot and killed on York Road near Towson Circle, with police saying the search for the suspect continues and urging residents to expect an increased police presence. Immigration & Enforcement: Maryland Gov. Wes Moore faces fresh scrutiny over an immigrant rights task force and related criticism of how the state handles federal enforcement. Maryland Economy & Health Care: Medicaid billing data show rising local spending for “Medicine Services and Procedures” in Gaithersburg, reflecting how public health dollars are shifting in the community. Local Culture & Business: Anne Arundel County breweries roll out America250 limited-edition beers tied to colonial recipes and Revolutionary history. Weather: A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for parts of Maryland and nearby states, with damaging winds, hail, and heavy rain possible. Sports: Ernie Clement powers Toronto past Baltimore 6-4, while the Orioles add catcher Sam Huff after Samuel Basallo’s abdominal injury.