GVPT Alumnus Karson Kamenetz Runs for Baltimore County Council
When Karson Kamenetz walks neighborhoods across Baltimore County’s new District 4, he carries a lifelong connection to public service and a determination to move the community forward.
A graduate of the Department of Government and Politics (GVPT), Kamenetz is now running for Baltimore County Council, seeking to represent a diverse district of predominantly Black and Jewish communities surrounding Northwest Baltimore. If elected, he could become the youngest person ever to serve on the council.
Born while his father was serving his second term on the council, Kamenetz grew up around politics in Baltimore County. From campaign rallies to community events, public service was part of daily life. His father, Kevin Kamenetz, served four terms as a Democratic councilman before becoming Baltimore County Executive from 2010 to 2018. In 2018, while running for governor, he passed away unexpectedly at age 59 — a loss that deeply shaped Karson’s sense of purpose.
While the Kamenetz name carries weight in county politics, Karson has worked to ensure his candidacy stands on its own merits. He has actively engaged voters across the district and raised significant early campaign support, and paused his studies at the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law to campaign full-time.
Kamenetz began building the analytical foundation for public service early. After graduating from GVPT, he worked in Annapolis for the Chair of the Baltimore County House Delegation, helping advance legislation to strengthen Maryland’s public education system. In 2022, while still an undergraduate, he was elected to the Baltimore County Democratic State Central Committee, later serving as Parliamentarian and leading bylaw reforms to connect the Party’s voice to its elected leaders. He also organized hundreds of volunteers with Swing Left Baltimore, mobilizing voters in key districts across the country.
Through his work and community engagement, Kamenetz has developed interests in housing affordability, education policy, environmental stewardship, economic development, public safety, and initiatives to help seniors remain active and supported in their communities.
Kamenetz emphasizes accessibility in leadership — even placing his personal phone number on his campaign materials. Those who knew both Karson and his father note similarities: a strong command of policy, a strong work ethic, and a belief that government can change lives.
GVPT alums pursue careers across government, campaigns, research, and public service roles, representing a wide range of political perspectives.
As he seeks to represent District 4, Kamenetz is striving to balance legacy with leadership — honoring the example set before him while building a future distinctly his own.
Learn more about Karson Kamenetz
Published on Thu, 02/19/2026 - 12:11