Our Priorities for District 28
12 Years of Grassroots Service. A Lifetime of Commitment.
Supporting Caregivers & The "Sandwich Generation"
Every senior deserves the dignity of aging in place, and every caregiver deserves a state that recognizes their sacrifice. Having cared for my mother through her battle with pancreatic cancer while raising my own young children, I know that caregiving is the backbone of our community. I will champion legislation for a $3,000 tax credit and fully fund the Caregiver Expense Grant Program.
Personal Note
“I’ve sat at the bedside, I’ve navigated the healthcare maze, and I’ve balanced the bills. I’m not just a strategist; I’m a caregiver who knows we can do better.”
Education: Funding the Blueprint for Our Children
As an autism mom and caregiver, I fight for a future where every child is supported. We must fully fund school psychologists and mental health resources while expanding community services and vocational opportunities for autistic youth transitioning beyond school age into adulthood.
Personal Note
“Watching my daughter navigate the world with autism has taught me that ‘standard’ isn’t enough. Every child deserves a roadmap that actually sees them.”
Justice Reform & Community Safety
True safety comes from addressing root causes. I advocate for a justice system that prioritizes mental health, mentorship, and real second chances. By investing in programs like the Chronic Absenteeism Termination Program and Future Legal Minds that I helped build in the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office, we create pathways to success instead of cycles of harm. I will champion policies that prioritize rehabilitation and opportunity for people with non‑violent offenses.
Personal Note
“I’ve seen too many bright young neighbors caught in a cycles. Building a safer Maryland means keeping them out of a courtroom and in our community.”
Health Equity & Economic Opportunity
Success shouldn’t depend on where you started. I am fighting to eliminate regional health disparities across Southern Maryland while ensuring local entrepreneurs can access vital funding. I will support lower drug prices and expanded medical care for every family.
Personal Note
“I’ve navigated the pharmacy lines and high premiums. Healthcare shouldn’t be a luxury for Southern Maryland families—it’s a basic right.”
Stand Up to the Trump Administration & protect Charles County Federal Workers and Contractors
Maryland has had over 31,000 workers impacted by the Trump Admin’s policies. Abena will enact state-level “shutdown insurance” to prevent the financial chaos for our workforce.
Personal Note
“Our federal workers are the engine of Charles County. They deserve a leader who stands up for their stability when political games threaten their livelihoods.”
Sustainable Growth & Utility Reform
Personal Note
“I’ve lived in Charles County long enough to know we want progress, but not at the expense of our quiet roads, our neighbors’ wallets, or our health.”
Abena opposes data center projects that dump environmental pollution and financial burdens on Charles County. Residents must never subsidize the massive energy demands of these facilities. True growth must be fair, prioritizing our public health, our local environment, and your hard-earned money.