Office of the County Executive

Tara Jackson is the Acting County Executive for Prince George's County, Maryland, succeeding Angela D. Alsobrooks, who was elected to the U.S. Senate. A dedicated public servant with a career spanning over two decades, Jackson has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to leadership, integrity, and community impact.

Before becoming Acting County Executive, Jackson served as the County’s Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) beginning in December 2020, a role in which she skillfully guided Prince George’s County through complex challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. She led efforts to transition the workforce to remote operations, establish vaccination centers, and manage federal relief funds with fiscal responsibility. Her collaborative leadership style and focus on empowering others earned her widespread respect across county government and the community.

Jackson’s journey in public service began as a line prosecutor in the State's Attorney's Office, where she was drawn to the discretion and responsibility to “do the right thing.” After eight years in private practice, litigating criminal, civil, and administrative cases, she returned to public service as Principal Deputy State's Attorney. In this role, she honed her skills in administration and leadership, which she later carried into her position as Deputy County Attorney. As Deputy County Attorney, she provided legal counsel to various government agencies and helped manage the administration of the County Attorney’s office.

Recognizing her passion for governance and organizational management, Jackson transitioned to the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer (DCAO) for Government Operations under County Executive Alsobrooks. In this capacity, she helped streamline county operations and enhance public service delivery. She later rose to CAO, solidifying her reputation as a results-driven and empathetic leader. During her time as CAO, she served as a special advisor to County Executive Alsobrooks, providing counsel on difficult policy and fiscal matters. As CAO, she adopted an empowerment-focused leadership style, giving directors and DCAOs across County government the tools they need to achieve the priorities of the administration. 

Jackson earned a Bachelor of Science from James Madison University, a Juris Doctor from the University of Maryland School of Law, and a Master of Divinity in Leadership Development from the Phoenix Seminary, reflecting her deep-rooted servant leadership style. She is a member of the First Baptist Church of Upper Marlboro. In addition, she is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the Board of Directors of the Foundation Schools, and serves on the Character Committee of the Fourth Appellate Judicial Circuit. Acting County Executive Jackson is a devoted wife to Lawrence Paul Jackson II and a loving mother to their son, Josiah. 

As Acting County Executive, Jackson’s priorities include maintaining the stability of government operations during the leadership transition, developing a responsible FY26 budget to send to the County Council, advancing key economic development projects like the Blue Line Corridor, enhancing community services, and ensuring equitable access to resources for all Prince George’s County residents. Her leadership is marked by a dedication to collaboration, transparency, and a vision for a thriving and inclusive community. Motivated by her faith and a commitment to public service, Acting County Executive Tara Jackson remains steadfast in her mission to make a positive and lasting impact on Prince George's County.