Maryland Leaders Mourn the Passing of Delegate Charles J. Otto

Leaders across Maryland are mourning the passing of Delegate Charles J. Otto, who represented District 38A in the House of Delegates from 2011 until 2025. Delegate Otto, a lifelong Eastern Shore resident, passed away on October 17, 2025, at the age of 61. 

Delegate Otto was a dedicated public servant, having graduated from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University with a degree in Animal Science before working in agriculture and farm advocacy and subsequently entering elected office.

Colleagues remembered him with great respect. Governor Wes Moore noted, "This was a man who loved Maryland to his core… Delegate Otto and I may not have belonged to the same political party, but we could agree on this: Marylanders are always worth fighting for." 

The Maryland House Republican Caucus described him as "the heart of our Caucus… When he spoke, he did so with heartfelt wisdom, and members listened, no matter their political party. He was unceasingly generous and hilariously funny." 

House Minority Leader Jason C. Buckel shared that "Charles Otto was a good man and a great friend and colleague… He loved Somerset County passionately and fought for Maryland’s farmers, watermen, and rural communities with every breath he had."

 The Maryland Farm Bureau added, "As a farmer himself, he was firmly rooted in the agricultural community… Delegate Otto was a steadfast champion for Maryland agriculture and will be sorely missed."

Delegate Otto also served as Deputy Minority Whip, was active in his church, and consistently championed the interests of the Eastern Shore. His colleagues describe him as a bridge-builder, a listener, and a devoted advocate.