Incumbent Mayor Charles T. Cephas, Sr. (left) and challenger Council President Earl H. Murphy, Jr. (right).
Voters in the Town of Hurlock will head to the polls on Saturday, November 1. The election features a contest for mayor, competitive races for two council seats, and one unopposed incumbent returning for another term. Polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Hurlock Elementary School.
Mayoral Race: Cephas vs. Murphy
The marquee matchup is between incumbent Mayor Rev. Charles T. Cephas, Sr., and Council President Earl H. Murphy, Jr., who is challenging him under the campaign slogan “Focused on Our Future!”
Cephas, who also serves as a bishop, is seeking another term, pointing to what he calls the town’s prosperity under his leadership. On social media, he has encouraged residents to turn out in force on Election Day.
“If you can’t run, walk. If you can’t walk, vote. Your life and your family’s life will depend on it,” Cephas said. “Let heaven know that you were going to vote, and together we will win this election.”
Murphy, meanwhile, says he’s running to build on his years of service as both councilman at large and council president. His campaign emphasizes collaboration, infrastructure improvements, and community growth.
“My leadership style is rooted in transparency, collaboration, and genuine respect for the voices of the people I serve,” Murphy said. “Now I’m ready to take that service to the next level.”
He has framed his campaign around the idea of balancing Hurlock’s small-town identity with a forward-looking vision for progress.
Council Races: New Faces and Familiar Names
Councilman David L. Higgins will continue to represent District 1 after running unopposed. Per the town charter, his name will not appear on the ballot. He thanked residents for their support and said he looked forward to serving another four years.
District 2 Incumbent Councilperson Bonnie Franz faces a challenge from Zia Ashraf, a local lawyer, Lions Club member, and member of the town’s Ethics Committee. Franz is known for her work on community projects like the Hurlock Walking Trail.
Ashraf says he wants to bring a fresh perspective to local government. “I come from a family of small business owners and farmers who’ve been part of Hurlock for nearly three decades. I’ve worked in Annapolis and Washington and want to use that experience to serve our town.”
Jeff Smith and Cheyenne Chase are vying for the at-large seat. Smith, who has lived in Hurlock for about 20 years, works for Utility Lines Construction Services (ULCS) and says his campaign theme—“Our Town, Our Future” — reflects his deep local roots and focus on community connection.
Chase, who moved to Hurlock in 2008, is running on the slogan “Moving Forward Together.” His platform emphasizes sustainable development, maintaining town infrastructure, and promoting youth engagement.
“I am a family-oriented man with a vision of focusing on the youth,” Chase said. “I’m committed to serving our community with integrity and honest leadership.”
Community Engagement and Endorsements
Shore Progress, which describes itself as a nonpartisan civic organization, has announced endorsements for Cephas and Higgins.
“Both Charles and David have shown what it means to put our Shore communities first,” the organization said in a statement. “They lead with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to building a Hurlock that works for everyone.”
The group urged residents to turn out on Election Day. “Local elections matter just as much as the ones that make national headlines. Your voice matters. Your vote matters. Let’s show up for leaders who show up for us.”
Whether Hurlock voters choose to stay the course or chart a new direction, this year’s election promises to shape the future of one of Dorchester County’s most active small towns.
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