Kris Fair

Kris Fair is a Democratic politician currently serving as a member of the Maryland House of Delegates, representing District 3 in Frederick County. Born on August 19, 1984, Fair has a background in political science and history, and he has been actively involved in local politics and advocacy, particularly focusing on LGBTQ rights and social issues.

Early life and career

Kris Fair was raised in Mount Airy, Maryland, where he completed his secondary education at Linganore High School, graduating in 2002. Following high school, he pursued higher education at Frederick Community College, obtaining an associate's degree in general studies in 2008. He then continued his studies at Hood College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and history in 2013.

Before entering politics, Fair worked in the private sector as the manager of New York, New York Salon in Frederick for 17 years, a role he held until 2021. His commitment to community service is evident from his involvement as the chair of the Student Homelessness Initiative Partnership in 2021, where he worked to address issues related to homelessness among students.

Fair's political engagement began in earnest in 2012 when he served as a campaign coordinator for a local initiative known as Question 6, which focused on marriage equality in Maryland. His political career progressed as he took on leadership roles within the Frederick County Democratic Party, including serving as vice-chair of the Frederick County Democratic Central Committee and as the campaign manager for the Democratic Party in 2014. In January 2017, he announced his candidacy for the Frederick City Board of Aldermen. His campaign was supported by notable local political figures, including county executive Jan Gardner and state senator Ron Young. Although he did not win a seat on the board, his candidacy marked his growing involvement in local governance.

In May 2018, Fair founded the Maryland LGBT PAC, a political action committee aimed at supporting openly LGBTQ candidates. He also became the executive director of The Frederick Center, an organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of LGBTQ individuals in the community. His experience in advocacy and local politics laid the groundwork for his subsequent legislative ambitions.

Legislative service

Kris Fair was sworn into the Maryland House of Delegates on January 11, 2023, marking a significant milestone in his political career. He is recognized as the first openly gay lawmaker from western Maryland, which reflects a growing diversity in representation within the state legislature. Fair serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, where he participates in discussions and decisions regarding fiscal policies and education funding.

During the 2023 legislative session, Fair was appointed chair of Maryland's LGBTQ+ Caucus, a role that allows him to advocate for issues pertinent to the LGBTQ community within the legislative framework. His election as an elector pledged to Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election further underscores his active participation in both state and national political processes.

Fair's legislative work has included a focus on various social and environmental issues. He has been involved in initiatives aimed at addressing climate change, education reform, electoral reform, immigration policy, and social justice. His commitment to these issues reflects his broader vision for a more equitable and sustainable Maryland.

Policy focus and district

Kris Fair's policy priorities encompass a range of critical issues that resonate with his constituents in District 3. One of his primary concerns is climate change, which he has described as a significant threat to humanity. Fair has advocated for the Climate Solutions Now Act, an omnibus bill aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 60 percent by 2030. He emphasizes the importance of providing agricultural workers with resources to adopt regenerative farming practices and enhance biodiversity.

In the realm of education, Fair supports the Blueprint for Maryland's Future, a comprehensive education reform initiative designed to improve funding and resources for public schools. He is committed to ensuring that the funding allocated through this initiative is utilized effectively to meet the needs of students and educators.

Fair has also taken an active role in electoral reform, introducing legislation that would allow unaffiliated voters to change their party affiliation at polling places to participate in partisan primaries. He has worked to amend existing laws regarding the appointment process for filling vacancies in the Maryland General Assembly, advocating for special elections to enhance democratic participation.

On immigration issues, Fair has expressed his support for repealing the 287(g) program, which allows local law enforcement to collaborate with federal immigration authorities. He argues that this program undermines trust between local communities and law enforcement.

Social issues are another area of focus for Fair. He has supported measures to prevent discrimination in healthcare settings based on various factors, including sexual orientation and gender identity. He has also opposed legislation that would restrict transgender students' participation in sports and has introduced bills aimed at improving access to healthcare for individuals requiring hormone replacement therapy.

Transportation policy is another critical aspect of Fair's legislative agenda. He advocates for alternatives to widening major highways, instead promoting enhanced access to mass transit options, such as MARC trains, and supporting the expansion of the Red Line to Urbana.

Fair's personal life is characterized by his openness about his identity; he is married to his husband, Dominick Fair, since August 2013. This aspect of his life informs his advocacy work and commitment to representing the interests of the LGBTQ community in Maryland.

In summary, Kris Fair's journey from local advocacy to state legislator reflects his dedication to public service and his commitment to addressing pressing social and environmental issues. As a member of the Maryland House of Delegates, he continues to work on behalf of his constituents in District 3, focusing on policies that promote equity, sustainability, and community well-being.