Steve Tillett, Veteran and Civil Rights Leader, Announces Run for District 32 State Senate Seat to Represent Russett, Watershed, and Laurel Communities

Tillett is Helping to Lead Statewide Push to Redistrict Maryland’s Congressional Seats to Fight Voter Suppression

Lt. Colonel (ret) Steve Tillett, Air Force veteran and well-known civil rights advocate, has announced his candidacy for Maryland State Senate in District 32. Tillett says he is stepping forward to be “a voice for the people” at a moment when working families are facing rising costs, economic uncertainty, and political division.

His announcement comes in the wake of a series of major Democratic victories across the country on November 4, 2025, signaling a renewed momentum among voters concerned about inflation, the federal government shutdown, and efforts to weaken the social safety net.

Tillett’s candidacy reflects a generational shift in leadership as Russett and District 32 communities look to new voices to step into roles long held by officials such as Nancy Pelosi, Steny Hoyer, and Pam Beidle — elected leaders whose average age between the three is 82. “This moment requires new energy, new urgency, and new solutions,” Tillett said.

A Lifetime of Service to Country and Community

Tillett emphasized that this campaign is a natural continuation of decades of service to our country and to communities throughout District 32 — including Russett, Watershed, Fieldstone, Bacontown, and Maryland City. “As an Air Force veteran, I took an oath to protect our country,” Tillett said. “As a civil rights leader, I’ve worked to secure and protect voting rights nationwide. Now, as State Senator, I will be a strong and clear voice for every family feeling the pressure of rising costs, shrinking wages, and political gamesmanship.”

Leading the Push Against Voter Suppression

Tillett launched his campaign by joining leaders from across Maryland in calling for changing Maryland’s congressional districts to ensure fair representation in the U.S. House of Representatives. Speaking at a press conference outside the Maryland State House in Annapolis, Tillett said the stakes are too high to ignore efforts in other states to manipulate district boundaries and suppress votes.

"In this season, to stand by and watch the lawless takeover of our government would be wrong, unconscionable, and put us in league with the policy violence being forced on the American people,",” Tillett said. “We must protect the voice of every voter — in Maryland and across America.” He pointed to reforms adopted by states like California, where voters on November 4, 2025 approved Proposition 50 to allow for redistricting to combat voter suppression. “Maryland must meet this moment,” Tillett said. “I agree with Governor Wes Moore and will work with him to encourage the General Assembly to redistrict Maryland's congressional maps right away and I encourage others to join me. This is a big moment for all of us."

A Proven Builder of Coalitions

Tillett highlighted coalition-building as one of his greatest strengths. He has helped organize and lead Anne Arundel Connecting Together (ACT) to advocate for affordable housing, community safety, and economic opportunity for all regardless of income. He has also worked alongside his fellow pastors throughout the Baltimore-Washington Conference of the United Methodist Church, as well as his fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi, which works year-round to support community needs.

“I have always worked to bring people together,” Tillett said. “I’ve always worked to be the people’s voice — and I will continue to do so, especially when others constantly work to divide us.”

Campaign Kickoff Event

Tillett will hold his formal campaign kickoff event on Saturday, November 15 at 3:00 PM at Fresh Start Church in Glen Burnie. Community members are invited to attend and join the movement.