2008 General Assembly
Key Figures on the Legislative Front Lines
As the Maryland General Assembly begins its 90-day annual session this week, here are some players to watch. Select an image above to read more. Up-and-Comer | |||||||
For Del. Justin D. Ross (D-Prince George's), the best part of his leadership role might well be its title: chief deputy majority whip. "That's got to be the coolest title in Annapolis," Ross said. At 31, Ross is an ambitious up-and-comer hungry to make his mark at the State House. During the special session in the fall, Ross won kudos for rounding up votes among his rank-and-file colleagues for key bills. "I do what the speaker tells me to," Ross said. "The leadership has a strategy, and they ask me to help go get votes for them. But I can't tell you my trade secrets." Ross said he hopes to sponsor legislation on criminal justice, including bills about the treatment of drug abusers and ex-felons. He also is interested in laws that promote economic development in low-income communities. As Ross enters his sixth year in the House of Delegates, his future seems bright. The real estate agent from Greenbelt says he is eyeing a run for Prince George's County executive. Someday, he would like to serve in Congress, too. "But I'm 31 years old, so I've got a little time," Ross said, laughing. -- Philip Rucker | |||||||
