On The Record (OTR) -US House of Representatives – D49

The race is uncharted waters for Rubin, 52, a Jewish progressive. Redistricting after the 2020 census drained the district of much of its Jewish population and stretched its boundaries into the conservative sections of Maryland. The district comprises all of Garrett, Allegany, Frederick, and Washington counties, as well as a portion of Montgomery County.

A national security consultant, Rubin, who launched his campaign on July 24, said he would bring into play his hands-on experience as deputy mayor of the Washington, D.C., suburb of Chevy Chase as well as his roots in Pittsburgh, which lies about 90 minutes north of the western part of the 6th District.

“It’s just a matter of transportation, housing, public safety, and security, questions about economic development, and what’s the vision for our children in the schools,” said Rubin, who last May wrapped up his third two-year term as deputy mayor of Chevy Chase.

In 2008, Rubin helped found J Street, the nonprofit liberal Jewish Middle East advocacy and policy group, and in 2020 he served as the Jewish community liaison for Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders’ second bid for the Democratic presidential nomination.