Gary Simmons

Gary Simmons is an American politician currently serving as a member of the Maryland House of Delegates for District 12B, which is located in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. A member of the Democratic Party, Simmons has a background in law enforcement and military service, which informs his legislative priorities and community engagement. His career in public service began after he transitioned from a successful career in law enforcement to elected office, where he aims to represent the interests of his constituents in the Maryland General Assembly.

Early life and career

Gary Simmons was born on July 25, 1971. He grew up in a community that emphasized education and public service, values that would later guide his professional choices. Simmons completed his secondary education at Walter G. O'Connell Copiague High School, graduating in 1990. Following high school, he pursued higher education at Tuskegee University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice and political science in 1994. This academic background laid the groundwork for his future roles in law enforcement and public service.

Before entering the political arena, Simmons built a career in military law enforcement. He served as a sergeant field training officer at Luminis Health, Inc., where he gained valuable experience in leadership and community engagement. His work in law enforcement not only provided him with insights into the challenges faced by communities but also instilled in him a strong sense of duty to serve and protect the public. This commitment to service ultimately propelled him into a political career, where he could influence policy and advocate for the needs of his constituents.

In 2022, Simmons decided to run for the Maryland House of Delegates, motivated by a desire to make a difference in his community. He initially campaigned for the District 31 seat but was later drawn into the newly established District 12B due to redistricting. His campaign focused on various issues relevant to his constituents, reflecting his background in law enforcement and his commitment to public service. Simmons successfully won the Democratic primary on July 19, 2022, positioning himself as a strong candidate for the general election. He continued his campaign efforts and ultimately defeated his Republican opponent, Ashley Arias, in the general election held on November 8, 2022. This victory marked the beginning of his legislative career.

Legislative service

Gary Simmons was sworn into the Maryland House of Delegates on January 11, 2023. His entry into the legislature coincided with a period of significant legislative activity in Maryland, and he quickly became involved in various committees and discussions that shape state policy. As a member of the House Judiciary Committee, Simmons plays a crucial role in reviewing and shaping legislation related to legal and judicial matters, which aligns with his background in law enforcement and criminal justice.

During his time in office, Simmons has been involved in legislative initiatives that reflect his commitment to social justice and economic equity. For instance, during the 2026 legislative session, he supported a bill aimed at raising the minimum wage in Maryland from $15 to $25 per hour, while also advocating for the elimination of all subminimum wages. This legislative focus indicates his dedication to improving the economic conditions for workers in Maryland, particularly those in low-wage positions. By championing such measures, Simmons aims to address income inequality and promote fair labor practices within the state.

Simmons's tenure in the legislature has not been without its challenges. In January 2025, he found himself at the center of a controversy involving the Anne Arundel Democratic Central Committee. After the committee nominated state delegate Shaneka Henson to fill a Senate vacancy, Simmons wrote a letter to state and local Democratic officials calling for action against a fellow committee member, Geonta Simmons, for discussing private meeting details. The situation escalated when Simmons inadvertently used his official legislative stationery for this correspondence, which raised concerns about potential violations of legislative ethics rules. Although he later retracted the letter and acknowledged his mistake, the incident highlighted the complexities and responsibilities that come with public office.

Policy focus and district

As a representative of District 12B, Gary Simmons is tasked with addressing the diverse needs and concerns of his constituents in Anne Arundel County. His policy focus is informed by his background in law enforcement, as well as his commitment to social justice, economic equity, and community well-being. Simmons's legislative priorities reflect a blend of public safety, economic development, and social equity, aiming to create a more inclusive and prosperous environment for all residents.

Simmons's support for raising the minimum wage is indicative of his broader commitment to economic justice. By advocating for policies that benefit working families, he seeks to ensure that all Marylanders have access to fair wages and the opportunity to thrive. Additionally, his experience in law enforcement informs his approach to public safety, as he understands the importance of balancing community safety with the rights and needs of individuals.

In representing District 12B, Simmons also engages with local community organizations, stakeholders, and residents to better understand the challenges they face. This engagement allows him to advocate effectively for policies that resonate with the needs of his constituents. By fostering open communication and collaboration, Simmons aims to build a stronger, more connected community.

In summary, Gary Simmons is a dedicated public servant whose career in law enforcement and military service has shaped his approach to legislative work. As a member of the Maryland House of Delegates, he focuses on issues of economic equity, social justice, and public safety, striving to represent the interests of his constituents in District 12B. His journey from law enforcement to elected office reflects a commitment to serving the public and addressing the pressing challenges faced by the communities he represents.