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Common Cause Maryland and Maryland PIRG look forward to serving on the Baltimore County Fair Election Work Group and providing support as they work to implement a new public financing program.

In a strong bipartisan vote (39-6), the Maryland State Senate has approved a bill to update and fund the state's small donor public financing program for gubernatorial candidates. Maryland’s current public financing system for the gubernatorial race was implemented in the 1970s.

“The Citizens’ Election Fund can expand opportunities to run for office, so more women and people of color can compete for County Council and County Executive races,” explained Common Cause Maryland executive director Joanne Antoine. “We are thrilled that voters have supported Question A to help build a more reflective and representative government.”

Today, Common Cause Maryland is launching a new program to ensure voters know where Baltimore City candidates stand on practical solutions to the challenges facing our democracy.

Voters, City Council and Mayor have all supported the fair campaign finance program, now the City Council will vote on funding it.