Maryland leaders offer condolences after death of Speaker Adrienne Jones' son

Maryland leaders offered condolences after the death of Speaker Adrienne Jones' son.

She was notified of Brandon's death on Thursday morning, according to her office. The details of his death were not provided. 

"Speaker Jones requests privacy during this difficult time for her and her family," her office said in the short statement. 

Maryland leaders honored Jones with a moment of silence ahead of a budget hearing in the state House. 

"I'd be remiss if I didn't make a mention to say, we're all thinking about our speaker right now," Gov. Wes Moore said. "She just recently released a statement about the passing of her son." 

"...We say to her that she's deeply in our thoughts and we're lifting her and her family up right now in this time of need," the governor added before a moment of silence. 

Jones, Maryland's first Black female speaker, has been a member of the House of Delegates since 1997. She has served as House Speaker since 2019 and grew up in Baltimore County.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott also shared a message for Speaker Jones on social media, saying, "The loss of a child is a pain that words cannot convey. Speaker Jones has selflessly dedicated so much to our state, and now Baltimore stands united with her…" 

Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier said counseling services would be available for county Department of Corrections employees. 

"Brandon's life undoubtedly touched so many," Howard County Executive Calvin Ball said in a statement. "While his presence will be missed, may his spirit continue to serve as a guiding light for his loved ones. Speaker Jones has broken barriers and shattered glass ceilings, and we know that her son was immensely proud of her dedication and impact.