The sights, sounds, and energy of NHRA drag racing were on full display for two Maryland lawmakers who joined representatives from Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and Performance Racing Industry (PRI) for a behind-the-scenes visit to the inaugural NHRA Potomac Nationals at Maryland International Raceway.
Maryland State Delegates Matthew Morgan and Kevin Hornberger spent two days getting a firsthand look at what make drag racing such a unique part of the motorsports landscape.
Alongside representatives of SEMA and PRI, the lawmakers toured the Maryland International Raceway facility, met racers and teams, and learned about the ins and outs of the sport of drag racing. The visit was organized as part of SEMA and PRI’s ongoing effort to help elected officials better understand the racing community and the profound impact motorsports has on local economies and families across the country.
NHRA Chief Development Officer Brad Gerber and Chief Legal Officer Alen Cisija accompanied the lawmakers on their tour, providing insight on what it takes to host national events as part of the 2026 NHRA season, which also coincides with the sanctioning body’s 75th year in business. During the tour, Funny Car standout Austin Prock stopped to speak and spend time with the group. When elimination rounds arrived, Delegate Hornberger found himself cheering on Prock as he advanced to the final round and ultimately won the event with a 3.956 over Jack Beckman’s 3.971.
Top Fuel racer Maddi Gordon and team owner Ron Capps also spent time with the lawmakers. They shared stories about Capps’ extensive history with the sport and showed them how Gordon is just one of many examples of what the future will look like. Gordon, just 22 years old, spoke about growing up at the racetrack and how the sport has instilled strong family values while teaching lessons that continue to guide her both in and out of the driver’s seat. She emphasized to the lawmakers how both racers and fans view racing as a career and a lifestyle, not just a hobby.
“Gordon’s grit, grace and gratitude showed lawmakers that the next generation of racing is worth protecting,” PRI Grassroots Manager Coby Lobaugh said.
While Delegate Morgan has a racing background of his own, both lawmakers were able to see firsthand the unique atmosphere that surrounds NHRA events. Time was spent walking through the pits, speaking with vendors, race teams, and even spectators. Each of those conversations provided a closer look at the people and businesses that rely on racing events and the role racetracks play in their local communities.
For PRI, creating those connections is a key part of protecting the future of motorsports. The motorsports industry contributes nearly $500 million to the state of Maryland, with over $17 million supporting local families and small businesses in Delegate Hornberger and Morgan’s districts.
“Lawmaker engagement at motorsports events can only strengthen the understanding of the district they represent,” Lobaugh said. “It allows them to meet the people where they are and hear firsthand how racing supports their livelihoods.”
For the representatives at PRI and SEMA, that’s exactly the outcome they hope for when bringing elected officials to major racing events. By experiencing the sport of drag racing up close and on a personal level, lawmakers gain a clearer understanding of the fans, business, racers, and families that make the sport so special.
“PRI’s goal is to protect the future of motorsports at every level by hosting lawmakers with the hope that continued awareness and education will bridge the gap between the government and the grandstands.”
This story was originally published on June 10, 2026. 
