Fix and Fund Fair Elections for Governor

For too long, Maryland's elections for Governor have been dominated by large and corporate donors, but things could be different in 2022.

Please tell Gov. Hogan: Fix and Fund Fair Elections

Subject: SB415/HB424: Fix and fund Fair Elections for Gov.

Your Letter:

Please support SB415/HB424, to update and fund the Fair Elections program for gubernatorial races.

Under Maryland’s current gubernatorial public financing program, individual contributions up to $250 receive matching funds but wealthy donors and corporations are able to make contributions up to $6,000, which is far greater than most Marylanders can afford

This bill updates the program to limit donations to $250, require participating candidates to reject all corporate contributions, and shift to a tiered matching program to encourage the smallest donations.

Small donor empowerment programs provide limited matching funds for small contributions to candidates who forgo large and corporate contributions. This system allows candidates relying on small donors to compete with big money candidates by appealing to residents of all income levels.

Small donor public financing programs are popular across the state. Montgomery County, Howard County, Prince George’s County and Baltimore City have all set up programs for local elections, and Baltimore County is in the process of doing so now. In Baltimore City, Baltimore County, and Howard County voters approved of the fund through amendments to the County and City charters.

It’s time for an updated and improved small donor public financing program for races for Maryland Governor.

Thank you for your leadership on this critical issue

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