Meet Mrs. Benson

Joanne C. Benson was elected in 1991 to The House of Delegates of the Maryland General Assembly to represent Prince George’s County’s 24th Legislative District. In 2011 she was elected to serve as the 24th District’s first female Senator. Senator Benson currently serves in the Senate Leadership as Majority Whip. She is a member of the Budget and Taxation Committee, serves on the Joint Committees on Education, Business and Administration, Pensions, Audit and Evaluations, Children, Youth and Families; Ending Homelessness; Fair Practices and State Personnel Oversight; and has been appointed to the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments. She also is a member of the Women Legislators of Maryland and the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland.

Joanne C. Benson was born in Roanoke, Virginia. She is the daughter of the Reverend and Mrs. William Claybon. She is one of a patrician line of six --- four sisters and one brother. Her family relocated early on to Hagerstown, Maryland where she attended public schools and graduated from South Hagerstown High School. Mrs. Benson holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from Bowie State University and a Master of Arts Degree from Catholic University. She believes that education is one of the most powerful tools anyone could possess. She is a constant proponent for the strongest quality education for all Prince George’s County’s children.

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Why Mrs. Benson?

Family Message

A Message of Gratitude from Senator Benson & Family

Betty Jane Claybon Lee
Betty Jane Claybon Lee
Agnes Claybon
Agnes Claybon

The family of Senator Joanne C. Benson extends heartfelt thanks for the prayers, love, and compassion shared following the passing of her beloved sisters, Agnes Claybon and Betty Jane Claybon Lee.

Your kindness has been a source of strength and comfort during this difficult time.

Latest News

December Grocery Giveaway – SHABACH! Ministries

December Grocery Giveaway – SHABACH! Ministries

Join SHABACH! Ministries for the December Grocery Giveaway on Thursday, December 18, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Glenarden Ministry Center, located at 3600 Brightseat Road in Landover, Maryland. Families and individuals can receive free groceries and seasonal essentials, offered while supplies last. This drive-thru distribution is designed to support the community with fresh food during the holiday season.

Please note that walk-ups cannot be accommodated, as we are only able to serve guests arriving in cars. Each vehicle is eligible for one distribution. For more information or questions regarding this event, please call 240-532-7003. We look forward to serving the community and helping ensure households have access to nutritious food this December.

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SHABACH! Mobile Market – Free Fresh Food Giveaway

The SHABACH! Emergency Resource Center is hosting its Mobile Market on Monday, December 8, from 10 AM to 12 PM at 403 Brightseat Road in Landover, Maryland. Community members can receive free fresh fruits, vegetables, and additional pantry items while supplies last. This event is designed to support families with healthy food options and essential household items.

This distribution is first come, first served, with no walk-ups permitted. If you have questions or need more information, please contact 240-532-7003. SHABACH! Ministries, Inc., a nonprofit outreach of First Baptist Church of Glenarden, remains committed to serving and empowering our community through compassionate support and essential resources.

Maryland Senate Chamber

2025 END OF SESSION LETTER

On Monday, April 7th, 2025, at 12:00 a.m., the 447th Legislative Session of the Maryland General Assembly ended. I deeply appreciate your input and wonderful unwavering support as we continue to put initiatives into law which will move us onward, upward, and outward. Many decisions in this session were very difficult, such as our overwhelming opposition to internet gambling but with your help, I voted with a focus and firm conviction in protecting our future and interest. While many of our legislative bills did not pass, I am looking forward to reintroducing them next session. This was a fast-paced session which kept us focused and extremely busy. I would like to share legislation and bond bills which directly impact our communities.

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