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Peter Choharis

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This page was current at the end of the individual's last campaign covered by Ballotpedia. Please contact us with any updates.
Peter Choharis
Image of Peter Choharis

Democratic Party

Elections and appointments
Last election

May 14, 2024

Education

Bachelor's

Harvard, 1983

Law

Yale, 1991

Personal
Religion
Greek Orthodox Christian
Profession
Lawyer
Contact

Campaign website

Campaign Facebook

Campaign Twitter

Campaign Instagram

Campaign YouTube

Personal Facebook

Personal LinkedIn

Peter Choharis (Democratic Party) ran for election to the U.S. House to represent Maryland's 6th Congressional District. He lost in the Democratic primary on May 14, 2024.

Choharis completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Peter Choharis earned a bachelor's degree from the Harvard in 1983 and a law degree from the Yale in 1991. His career experience includes working as a lawyer. As of 2024, Choharis was affiliated with Choharis Law.[1]

Elections

2024

See also: Maryland's 6th Congressional District election, 2024

Maryland's 6th Congressional District election, 2024 (May 14 Democratic primary)

Maryland's 6th Congressional District election, 2024 (May 14 Republican primary)

General election

General election for U.S. House Maryland District 6

April McClain-Delaney defeated Neil Parrott in the general election for U.S. House Maryland District 6 on November 5, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
✔
Image of April McClain-Delaney
April McClain-Delaney (D)
 
53.0
 
199,788
Image of Neil Parrott
Neil Parrott (R)
 
46.7
 
175,974
 Other/Write-in votes
 
0.2
 
862

There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source

Total votes: 376,624
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House Maryland District 6

The following candidates ran in the Democratic primary for U.S. House Maryland District 6 on May 14, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
✔
Image of April McClain-Delaney
April McClain-Delaney
 
40.4
 
22,985
Image of Joe Vogel
Joe Vogel
 
26.2
 
14,940
Image of Ashwani Jain
Ashwani Jain Candidate Connection
 
8.3
 
4,750
Image of Tekesha Martinez
Tekesha Martinez Candidate Connection
 
7.0
 
3,992
Image of Lesley Lopez
Lesley Lopez Candidate Connection
 
4.6
 
2,600
Image of Laurie-Anne Sayles
Laurie-Anne Sayles Candidate Connection
 
3.2
 
1,845
Image of Destiny West
Destiny West Candidate Connection
 
1.9
 
1,086
Image of Mohammad Mozumder
Mohammad Mozumder
 
1.8
 
1,005
Image of Joel Rubin
Joel Rubin
 
1.4
 
820
Image of Peter Choharis
Peter Choharis Candidate Connection
 
1.4
 
818
Image of Geoffrey Grammer
Geoffrey Grammer
 
1.1
 
651
Image of George Gluck
George Gluck
 
0.8
 
437
Image of Kiambo White
Kiambo White
 
0.7
 
401
Image of Stephen McDow
Stephen McDow Candidate Connection
 
0.4
 
246
Image of Altimont Wilks
Altimont Wilks Candidate Connection
 
0.3
 
179
Image of Adrian Petrus
Adrian Petrus
 
0.3
 
166

There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source

Total votes: 56,921
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. House Maryland District 6

The following candidates ran in the Republican primary for U.S. House Maryland District 6 on May 14, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
✔
Image of Neil Parrott
Neil Parrott
 
45.9
 
22,604
Image of Dan Cox
Dan Cox
 
30.1
 
14,797
Image of Mariela Roca
Mariela Roca Candidate Connection
 
12.3
 
6,071
Image of Tom Royals
Tom Royals
 
4.2
 
2,060
Image of Chris Hyser
Chris Hyser Candidate Connection
 
3.3
 
1,625
Image of Brenda Thiam
Brenda Thiam Candidate Connection
 
3.3
 
1,607
Image of Todd Puglisi
Todd Puglisi
 
0.9
 
446

There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source

Total votes: 49,210
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Choharis in this election.

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Candidate Connection

Peter Choharis completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Choharis' responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

Peter is an immigrant from Greece who was an orphan before being adopted by a working-class family in Boston when he was 2. His father was a Navy corpsman who served with the Marines and became a member of two unions: the Machinists and Hotel Service Workers. After his parents divorced, Peter and his sister were raised by a single mom. With hard work and determination, he was admitted to Harvard, becoming the first person in his family to go to college. Peter worked as many as three jobs during the academic year to put himself through school, so he knows first-hand the burdens created by the high cost of college education. When Peter graduated, Harvard awarded him a Sheldon Traveling Fellowship. He went to the Thai-Cambodian border and worked in a war zone for the International Rescue Committee, helping refugees fleeing the Vietnamese invasion of Cambodia. After that, he went to Sudan and worked for UNICEF during a famine and civil war. Peter later went to Yale Law School and became a lawyer.
  • Grow the economy:

    - Bring Businesses and High-paying Jobs to Maryland’s 6th

    - Support the green economy
  • Lower cost of Higher Education & Promote Community Colleges and Vocational Training
  • Reduce crime
Peter wants to serve Maryland by growing the economy, financing higher education, advancing fundamental tax reform, expanding vocational training and jobs, investing in the green economy, and making government more effective and efficient. And he will protect America’s national and economic security.
I’ve been inspired by my college classmate, Jamie Raskin. He’s endured enormous personal challenges this past year, but continues to work hard for the 8th District and our country.
The Mission. The movie doesn’t present a “political philosophy.” Rather, it explores complex themes about clashing cultures, exploitation, spirituality, and redemption. Plus, the cinematography and music are beautiful.
As an elected official, I believe it is essential to embody integrity, transparency, and a commitment to serving the people. Integrity is crucial because it ensures that decisions are made ethically and in the best interest of the community. Transparency builds trust with constituents by keeping them informed and involved in the decision-making process. Additionally, a commitment to serving the people means prioritizing their needs and working tirelessly to address them. Overall, these characteristics and principles are essential for maintaining the public's trust and effectively representing their interests.
I believe that my background and experiences uniquely qualify me to be a successful officeholder. My upbringing as an immigrant and my experiences overcoming personal hardships have instilled in me a deep sense of empathy, resilience, and determination. These qualities allow me to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and understand the challenges they face.

My education at Harvard and Yale Law School has equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze complex issues, craft effective policies, and navigate the legislative process. My work in humanitarian causes and my involvement in national Democratic politics have given me a broad perspective on global and domestic issues, as well as a commitment to social justice and progressive values.
Additionally, my experience as a lawyer and a founder of an international law firm has honed my abilities in negotiation, problem-solving, and leadership. I have a proven track record of advocating for justice and fighting for what is right, even in the face of adversity.

Overall, I believe that my combination of personal qualities, educational background, and professional experience make me well-suited to serve as an effective and principled officeholder who can make a positive impact on the lives of others.
As someone elected to this office, I believe the core responsibilities include serving as a voice for the people, making informed decisions that benefit the community, and upholding the values and laws of our democracy. It is essential to listen to the concerns of constituents and advocate for policies that address their needs. Additionally, being accessible and transparent in decision-making processes is crucial for maintaining trust and accountability. Overall, the core responsibilities revolve around representing the interests of the people and working towards the betterment of our society.
I would like to have served my country, promoted the well-being of my fellow citizens, and protected the vulnerable.
I have already achieved some of these things, but there’s much more I would like to accomplish. I have a long record of serving others and protecting vulnerable people. I have worked with refugees in war and famine zones. I have spent thousands of pro bono hours representing human rights victims and others in need here in the U.S. But I want to achieve systemic change.
Richard Nixon’s resignation because of Watergate.
Janitor in a large bank office building. Summer between my Junior and Senior year of high school.
Parting the Waters : America in the King Years 1954-63
Peaches - from my daughters!
One of the most significant struggles in my life has been overcoming the barriers to education and opportunity. Raised by a single mother in a working-class family, I had to work multiple jobs to put myself through college, becoming the first person in my family to attend Harvard. This experience taught me the challenges created by the high cost of education and the importance of access to quality education for all. Despite these obstacles, my determination and hard work allowed me to succeed. Now, I advocate for policies that make education more affordable and accessible for everyone, drawing from my own experiences.
The U.S. House of Representatives possesses several unique qualities that distinguish it as an institution. One of the most significant aspects is its representation of the American people. Unlike the Senate, where each state has equal representation, the House is apportioned based on population, ensuring that the voices of all citizens are heard.

Additionally, the House is known for its role as the "People's House," where members are elected every two years to ensure that they remain accountable to their constituents. This frequent turnover can lead to a more dynamic and responsive legislative body.
The House also has exclusive powers, such as the ability to initiate revenue bills and impeach federal officials. These powers give the House a unique role in the legislative process and in holding the executive branch accountable.

Overall, the House of Representatives is a vital part of the U.S. government, with its unique qualities contributing to its role as a representative and responsive legislative body.
Yes
Another major challenge will be addressing climate change and transitioning to a more sustainable economy. This will require significant investments in renewable energy, infrastructure, and green technologies, as well as implementing policies to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Additionally, the United States will need to address systemic racism and social injustice, ensuring that all Americans are treated fairly and have equal access to opportunities. This includes reforming criminal justice systems, addressing disparities in healthcare and education, and promoting diversity and inclusion in all aspects of society.

Overall, these challenges will require bold leadership, innovative solutions, and a commitment to working together as a nation to build a brighter future for all Americans over the next decade?
Yes
I support term limits for Members of the Congress (Senate and House) and the federal judiciary: 18 years for all of these positions. I would also increase the age of eligibility to 45 years old for all of them.
Democrat: John Lewis or Elijah Cummings

Republican: John McCain

All exhibited great personal sacrifice and moral courage. All loved their country deeply. All were principled and deeply respected by Members on the opposite side of the aisle. And all left enduring legacies of respect for the institution of the Congress and the moral courage to do what’s best for their constituents and country.
A U.S. Navy retiree, who had spent her entire career in the Navy and who had lived in Japan, recently confided to me that she felt safer when she lived overseas than she does now living in Hagerstown because of crime.
Yes
I would work to develop revenue bills that prioritize investments in education, job training, and infrastructure, as well as initiatives that address climate change and promote sustainability. Additionally, I would strive to ensure that any revenue-raising measures are designed to protect vulnerable populations and promote social justice.
Overall, I view the House's power to originate revenue bills as a means to enact policies that benefit all Americans and create a more just and equitable society.
I believe that the U.S. House should use its investigative powers responsibly and effectively to ensure transparency, accountability, and the proper functioning of government. This includes conducting oversight of the executive branch, investigating issues of national importance, and holding public officials accountable for their actions.

Investigations should be conducted in a fair, thorough, and nonpartisan manner, with a focus on uncovering the truth and serving the interests of the American people. The House should also work to ensure that investigations are conducted efficiently and in a timely manner, with respect for due process and the rights of all individuals involved.

Overall, the House's investigative powers should be used to serve the public interest and uphold the principles of democracy and good governance.
Nothing Public - several pending
Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party

Ways and Means
Oversight and Accountability
Judiciary
Foreign Affairs
Energy and Commercial

Education and the Workforce
Financial transparency and government accountability are foundational principles of good governance. As an elected official, I believe it is crucial to uphold these values to maintain the public's trust and ensure the effective use of taxpayer dollars. Financial transparency involves being open and honest about government spending and budgeting processes. It allows the public to understand how their money is being used and hold officials accountable for their decisions.

Government accountability goes hand in hand with financial transparency. It means that elected officials are responsible for their actions and decisions, and they should be held answerable to the public. This accountability helps prevent corruption and ensures that government officials are acting in the best interests of the people they serve.

In summary, I believe that financial transparency and government accountability are essential for a functioning democracy. As an elected official, I am committed to upholding these principles and ensuring that the government is transparent and accountable to the people.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Campaign finance summary

Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.

Peter Choharis campaign contribution history
YearOfficeStatusContributionsExpenditures
2024* U.S. House Maryland District 6Lost primary$109,293 $69,612
Grand total$109,293 $69,612
Sources: OpenSecrets,  Federal Elections Commission ***This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
* Data from this year may not be complete

See also

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External links

Candidate

U.S. House Maryland District 6
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    Footnotes

    1. ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on April 9, 2024


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