
Carl Brunner
Maryland Republican Governor nominee?
Primary Election
Party selects its nominee.
Overview
Current roleSecurity professional
PartyRepublican
Political ideologyConservative Republican
LocationMaryland
BackgroundSecurity professional
Show moreShow less
EducationHigh school
Notable personal detailsCarl A. Brunner, Jr. is a Republican candidate for Governor of Maryland in the 2026 election, running with Lt. Governor candidate Kevin Rhodes. He has worked in the security field since 1991 and has experience including fugitive recovery, private investigations, and firearms instruction. He is a lifelong Maryland resident.
SourcesShowHide
Positions
Economy & Taxes
The candidate supports lowering taxes and policies to help small businesses, and emphasizes making Maryland more affordable through pro-growth measures. His campaign materials prioritize tax reduction and economic relief for working families and businesses.
Public Safety & Guns
Carl Brunner emphasizes support for law enforcement and frames himself as a Second Amendment advocate; his background as a firearms business owner informs a pro-gun-rights orientation while his campaign materials stress public safety and backing police. Public statements and reporting show advocacy for gun rights rather than expanded firearm restrictions.
News
Carl A. Brunner, Jr. is being mentioned as one of the Republican candidates in Maryland’s 2026 governor’s race. The field is taking shape after Senate Minority Leader Steve Hershey said he will not run for governor and will stay in the state Senate. The contest is also sharpening as Gov. Wes Moore and Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller have filed for re-election, setting up a general-election target for GOP challengers.
New updates coming soon
We're monitoring and will update when new data impacts the race.
- Polls
- Endorsements
- Fundraising




