The Pocomoke City Election Board met Monday, February 9, 2026, to review candidate certificates of nomination, determine eligibility, and address the status of the city’s upcoming municipal election.
Candidate Review and Eligibility Determinations
During the meeting, the Board reviewed certificates of nomination for both council districts scheduled for election in 2026.
For District 2, only one candidate filed for office: Incumbent Diane Downing, of 807 8th Street. Board members stated that Downing met all eligibility requirements.
For District 1, two individuals submitted certificates of nomination. Michael Noble Hall, of 331 Winter Quarters Drive, was determined to be eligible. Board members confirmed that Hall met residency and voter eligibility requirements and resides within District 1.
A second applicant was found to be ineligible after the Board determined that the listed address was located outside District 1 and did not meet residency requirements.
Following discussion, the Board reached consensus to certify Michael Noble Hall as the eligible candidate for District 1 and Diane Downing as the eligible candidate for District 2.
Election Cancellation Under City Charter
With only one qualified candidate in each district, the Board cited provisions of the city charter requiring cancellation of a municipal election when no races are contested.
In an email following the meeting, John Haynie, Chair of the Board of Election Supervisors, summarized the Board’s action:
“The board met and found only 2 eligible candidates for the 2026 Pocomoke City Election.
District 1: Michael Noble Hall of 331 Winter Quarters Dr
District 2: Diane Downing of 807 8th St
With only one qualified candidate per district, public notice will be given of the cancellation of the election, thereby awarding each of these individuals the seat they applied for.”
Haynie noted that the results are unofficial until the required public notice period has passed and the Board formally certifies the election outcome.
Next Steps
The Board confirmed during the meeting that public notice of the election cancellation will be advertised as required. Once the notice period concludes, the Board will complete and sign certification documents formally declaring the candidates elected.
