Vanessa Atterbeary

Vanessa Atterbeary (Democratic Party) was a member of the Maryland House of Delegates, representing District 13. She assumed office on January 14, 2015. She left office on January 14, 2026.

Atterbeary (Democratic Party) ran for election to the U.S. House to represent Maryland's 3rd Congressional District. She did not appear on the ballot for the Democratic primary on May 14, 2024.

Atterbeary resigned from the Maryland House of Delegates District 13 on January 14, 2026 to focus on her 2026 campaign for Howard County executive.[1]

Vanessa Atterbeary did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2024 Candidate Connection survey.

Vanessa Atterbeary did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2022 Candidate Connection survey.

Atterbeary's website highlighted the following campaign themes:

Economic Opportunity

During this economic downturn, creating jobs for the residents of Howard County must be a top priority. I will work to strengthen Howard County’s position as an attractive location for new and existing businesses and encourage businesses that our county and state invest in, to invest in us. It is imperative that we protect the small businesses that are the backbone of our county’s economic life and ensure that they have the support necessary to remain in our county.

Education

It is critical that we continue to invest in our education system to ensure that our children have the best education possible and that we are also providing an attractive workforce for our business community. As a product of Maryland’s public schools and the daughter of a public school teacher, our public schools will be one of my highest priorities. We must also provide educational development opportunities for our teachers, ensure that our children aren’t trying to learn in an over-crowded environment and ensure our schools and children are equipped for this digital era. Our local colleges must remain strong in this regard and all our educational facilities must provide safe and worry free environments for students and staff.

Environment

Howard County, just as every other major jurisdiction in this country, has to be proactive in warding off the threats this issue poses. Protecting the Chesapeake Bay, creating sustainable energy projects, ensuring clean air and water for our families and helping businesses and developers to “go green” will ensure that Maryland has a long and sustainable future.

Women and Families

As a former family law attorney and President of the Montgomery County Commission for Women, I am committed to continuing to work on issues that affect women and families. Since my days at the College of William and Mary (97’), I have championed women’s rights, including issues such as pay equity, domestic violence, teen dating violence and living and minimum wage.

Seniors

Advocating for our seniors has to be a top priority. I am fortunate to have one of my living grandmothers residing here in District 13. Ensuring that seniors have safe facilities, affordable healthcare, and access to transportation are among my priorities for this growing segment of our community.[6][7]