Cathi Forbes holds a B.A. in English and Art History and has spent several years in marketing and information services roles. Forbes transitioned from the private sector to public service, where she has been involved in various capacities, including as a member of the Maryland House of Delegates. Forbes has demonstrated leadership in community advocacy, particularly in education and public safety, and has received recognition for her volunteer work.

Cathi Forbes's political identity is marked by a unique blend of localism and environmental advocacy, juxtaposed with a surprising critique of public safety expansion. Forbes champions local economic development and education, while simultaneously opposing the expansion of the Baltimore County Detention Center, highlighting a tension between her support for public infrastructure and her advocacy for community-driven decision-making. Her involvement in environmental organizations, despite a lack of explicit policy statements on the matter, suggests an underlying commitment to sustainability that is not always apparent in her public stances.