Representative Derrick Coley - Contact Information

Derrick Coley is a member of the Democratic Party and currently serves in the Maryland House of Delegates, representing District 24. He assumed office on January 13, 2026, and his current term will conclude on January 13, 2027.

Derrick L. Coley (born 1975) is an American legislator and policy professional from Prince George’s County, Maryland. Appointed to the Maryland House of Delegates in 2026 by Governor Wes Moore, Coley filled the vacancy created by the departure of Delegate Jazz Lewis. He now serves alongside Delegates Tiffany T. Alston and Andrea Harrison, representing District 24, an area encompassing communities in central Prince George’s County.

Coley attended Suitland High School before earning a Bachelor of Science degree in biological sciences and botany from North Carolina State University in 1998. He later completed a Master of Arts in public policy at American University in 2003. His academic training in science and policy provided a foundation for his career in government affairs, nonprofit leadership, and legislative advocacy.

Before joining the General Assembly, Coley worked extensively in public policy and community engagement, focusing on voting rights, education, and economic development. His professional background includes positions in nonprofit organizations and advisory roles in government, where he emphasized equity and access for underserved populations. This experience informed his legislative priorities and prepared him for committee work in Annapolis.

In the House of Delegates, Coley serves on the Ways and Means Committee, contributing to deliberations on taxation, education funding, and gaming regulation. Within the committee, he sits on the Child Care Subcommittee and the Gaming Subcommittee, reflecting his interest in family policy and economic oversight. He is also a member of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland, underscoring his commitment to advancing representation and addressing issues affecting African American communities across the state.

Coley’s legislative agenda emphasizes strengthening educational opportunities, expanding access to affordable child care, and safeguarding voting rights. He has been active in discussions surrounding the Voting Rights Act of 2026, highlighting his dedication to protecting democratic participation. His work demonstrates a consistent focus on fairness, civic engagement, and responsive governance.

Outside of public office, Coley resides in Prince George’s County with his wife, Okeysha Brooks. His personal and professional experiences have shaped a perspective rooted in community service and inclusive policymaking. As a newly appointed delegate, his tenure is expected to contribute to ongoing debates on education, family policy, and electoral reform, positioning him as a voice for equity and opportunity within Maryland’s legislative process.