Party Staff

An Atlantic City, NJ native and graduate of Morgan State University, Karen Darkes previously served as Major Gifts Director at Emerge. Karen started her career in political fundraising on the Brown-Ulman 2014 Maryland gubernatorial campaign. After that race, Karen worked as a national political fundraiser at a well-respected Democratic consulting firm in Washington, DC.  During her time there, Karen raised over 40 million dollars for her clients that included Congressman Elijah Cummings, Senator Amy Klobuchar and Congresswoman Lucy McBath, from donors across over 20 states. Karen has also raised over 1 million dollars as a non-profit fundraising consultant.

A resident of Baltimore City, Joe got his start as a Baltimore City Public School teacher. He is a seasoned political operative, serving as Director of Government Affairs for the Comptroller of Maryland. Prior to, Joe was the Campaign Manager for the successful Brooke Lierman for Maryland campaign, helping elect the first woman to win an independently elected statewide constitutional office.

Joe also served as Executive Director of Strong Schools Maryland, leading the campaign to pass the most significant investment in Maryland public schools in generations.

Mikayla currently serves as the Voter File Manager, handling day-to-day voter file and technology needs of the State party. She previously worked as a Field Organizer for MDP during the 2022 election cycle. 

Mikayla is a Southern Maryland native who has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from St. Mary’s College of Maryland. She also currently serves as the Secretary-Treasurer for Young Democrats of Maryland. Outside of work, Mikayla loves exercising, spending time with family and friends, and reading.

Ryan currently works as a Staff Associate, supporting operations and administration across the party. He was previously an intern during the 2022 election cycle. Ryan lives on the Eastern Shore, where he was born and raised. He’s also the President of the Queen Anne’s County Young Democrats. Outside of work, Ryan enjoys hiking, reading, and watching soccer.