The Prince George’s County Council unanimously turned to one of their own — Council member Wala Blegay (D-District 6) — when looking to fill the at-large vacancy on the legislative body after former Council member Calvin Hawkins resigned Dec. 22.
“I am grateful for the trust placed in me and excited to expand the work I have been doing in District 6 to serve residents across our entire county,” said Blegay shortly after the Dec. 29 appointment. “Thank you to my colleagues for the unanimous vote of confidence, and thank you to the residents of District 6 and Prince George’s County for the opportunity to serve.”
Following a council session where 36 candidates stated their case and qualifications for the seat, Council member Edward Burroughs (D-District 8) put forward a motion to nominate Blegay. This motion was unanimously accepted by the 10 members of the council, leaving a vacancy for the District 6 seat.
Hawkins, who is working in the Braveboy administration, stepped down from his elected position after his wife was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
“She’s been with me through everything I’ve done. It’s time for me to reciprocate the support she’s given over the years,” said Hawkins in an interview with Lionel Donovan posted to Instagram. “I’m looking forward to more time with her, to being a better husband as a result of my new position.”
Blegay thanked Hawkins for his years of service to the county, from his time working in the administration of former County Executive Rushern Baker, to his community work as an at-large council member.
“Calvin has truly been the People’s Champ — always showing up, listening, and fighting for our communities with heart and integrity,” said Blegay. “Because of his leadership, many residents felt seen, heard, and represented, and that legacy matters. I am grateful for the foundation he helped build and for the example he set in putting people first.”
Alexis Solis, who filed for the at-large vacancy and is also running for a congressional seat, congratulated Blegay following her appointment.
“A big thank you to all 36 candidates who stepped up for the council at-large vacancy: our community is ready to move Prince George’s County forward,” said Solis in a social media statement. “Congratulations to Councilmember Wala on being selected as our council at-large. I look forward to collaborating with you if elected to serve as Maryland’s 5th congressional district congresswoman, working together to strengthen our county and community.”
There will be an appointment for the now-vacant District 6 seat next week, with a filing deadline of Jan. 5 at 5 p.m. Applicants are expected to write a statement of interest and upload their resume.