Linda Foley

Linda Foley is a member of the Maryland House of Delegates, representing District 15. A member of the Democratic Party, she was appointed to her current position in December 2021 following the resignation of former Delegate Kathleen Dumais. Foley has a background in journalism and labor organizing, having held significant leadership roles within the Newspaper Guild and the Communications Workers of America prior to her legislative career. Her work has focused on issues related to labor rights and the representation of women in the workforce.

Early life and career

Linda Foley was born on March 10, 1955, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She completed her secondary education at Fox Chapel Area High School. Following her graduation, Foley pursued higher education at Northwestern University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in journalism from the Medill School of Journalism in 1977.

Foley began her professional career as a reporter for the Lexington Herald-Leader in Lexington, Kentucky. Her journalistic endeavors laid the groundwork for her later involvement in labor organizing. In 1984, she transitioned to full-time work with the Newspaper Guild, an organization dedicated to representing journalists and media workers. Her commitment to labor issues was evident as she ascended through the ranks of the Guild, being elected as its secretary-treasurer in 1993 and subsequently as its president in 1995. Foley made history as the first woman to hold the presidency of the Newspaper Guild, a position she maintained until 2008 when she was defeated in her re-election bid.

During her tenure with the Newspaper Guild, Foley played a pivotal role in the organization's merger with the Communications Workers of America in 1997, which expanded the Guild's influence and resources. After her presidency, she continued her advocacy for labor rights as the president of the Berger-Marks Foundation, an organization focused on promoting women's leadership within the labor movement. The foundation operated until its closure in 2017.

In addition to her labor-related activities, Foley became involved in local politics. In 2018, she was elected to the Montgomery County Democratic Central Committee, where she later assumed the role of chair of the Montgomery County Democratic Party. Her leadership in this capacity reflects her ongoing commitment to public service and political engagement.

Legislative service

Foley's entry into the Maryland House of Delegates came in December 2021 when she was nominated by the Montgomery County Democratic Party to fill a vacancy created by the resignation of Kathleen Dumais, who had been appointed as a Circuit Court judge. The nomination process saw Foley receive strong support from party members, with a vote count indicating a significant majority in her favor. Maryland Governor Larry Hogan appointed her to the House of Delegates shortly thereafter.

Since taking office, Foley has been involved in various legislative initiatives. Notably, during the 2025 legislative session, she sponsored a bill aimed at revising the mandate for funding reserve studies and preparation of funding plans by housing cooperatives, condominiums, and homeowners associations. This legislative effort reflects her focus on community issues and the management of residential properties, indicating her engagement with constituents' needs.

Foley is also a member of the Women Legislators of Maryland, an organization that promotes the participation and leadership of women in the state's legislative process. Her involvement in this group underscores her commitment to advancing women's representation in politics and addressing issues that affect women in Maryland.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Maryland House of Delegates representing District 15, Foley's policy focus encompasses a range of issues pertinent to her constituents. Her background in labor organizing informs her approach to legislation related to workers' rights, labor relations, and economic justice. Foley's experience as a labor leader positions her to advocate for policies that support fair labor practices and the rights of workers in various sectors.

In addition to labor issues, Foley's legislative agenda is likely influenced by the demographic and economic characteristics of District 15, which is located in Montgomery County. This area is known for its diverse population and vibrant economy, which includes a mix of residential, commercial, and educational institutions. Foley's role as a legislator involves addressing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by her constituents, including those related to housing, education, and public services.

Foley's commitment to public service is evident in her active participation in local political organizations and her efforts to engage with the community. Her leadership roles within the Democratic Party and her involvement in various committees and organizations reflect her dedication to representing the interests of her district and advocating for policies that promote social and economic equity.

In summary, Linda Foley's career spans journalism, labor organizing, and public service, culminating in her current role as a member of the Maryland House of Delegates. Her background and experiences inform her legislative priorities, which focus on labor rights, women's representation, and community engagement. As she continues her service in the Maryland General Assembly, Foley remains an advocate for the needs and interests of her constituents in District 15.