Will Milam, a retired Prince George's County chief assistant sheriff and Poolesville resident, is running as the Democratic nominee for Montgomery County Sheriff in the Nov. 3, 2026 general election.

Milam won the Democratic primary, defeating the incumbent, according to the AFRO. He is certified for the general election ballot, according to BallotReady election data.

Milam, 44, has spent more than two decades in Maryland law enforcement. He says he wants to make the sheriff's office a more active presence in the community on issues including domestic violence, youth mentorship and behavioral health.

Candidate information

  • Party: Democratic
  • Age: 44
  • Residence: Poolesville, Maryland (longtime resident)

Experience and public service

Milam was sworn in as a deputy sheriff on his 21st birthday, according to the AFRO. He began his career at the Calvert County Sheriff's Office, according to the AFRO.

He later served as a patrol officer and public information officer at the Prince George's County Sheriff's Office. He rose to assistant sheriff in Prince George's County and then to chief assistant sheriff. In that role, he served as second-in-command and managed four major bureaus: administration, field operations, court services and professional accountability.

He retired on Feb. 1, 2025.

On the issues

The following positions are drawn from Milam's responses on BallotReady. All statements reflect the candidate's own claims.

Domestic and family violence: Milam said he would implement a strategy to raise awareness, support survivors and hold offenders accountable. That strategy would include expanded partnerships with advocacy organizations, community outreach, improved training for deputies on trauma-informed responses and a stronger role in prevention efforts. He said the sheriff's office should not be a passive observer but a leader in ending domestic and family violence in the county.

Youth engagement: Milam said the sheriff's office would focus on coaching, mentoring and empowering young people through school partnerships, youth engagement programs and community-based initiatives.

Behavioral health: Milam said every resident deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, especially those living with behavioral health challenges and hidden disabilities. He said he would ensure the office leads with empathy and professionalism.

Fugitive apprehension and staffing: Milam said he would focus on apprehending fugitives and recruiting candidates to fill staff vacancies.

Community collaboration: Milam said he would work collaboratively with other county agencies to ensure a safe and secure community.

Endorsements

Gino Renne, president of UFCW Local 1994/McGEO, endorsed Milam. "It's gratifying that we finally have a forward-thinking sheriff who has the vision and skills to take the department to the next level," Renne said in comments reported by the AFRO.

Milam's campaign website is willmilam.com.