Voters Get A Voice On Big Money: Baltimore Voters To Decide On Publicly Funded Elections
On July 30, Baltimore Mayor Catherine E. Pugh signed the proposed amendment, thereby allowing voters to decide whether the city should allow public funding of local election campaigns. If voters approve the amendment, the city would match small-dollar donations for eligible candidates starting in the 2024 election.
This November, Baltimore voters will decide whether local elections should be publicly financed, a step towards curbing the influence of big money in Baltimore politics.
On July 30, Baltimore Mayor Catherine E. Pugh signed the proposed amendment, thereby allowing voters to decide whether the city should allow public funding of local election campaigns. If voters approve the amendment, the city would match small-dollar donations for eligible candidates starting in the 2024 election.
“With this ballot question, Baltimore voters have the power to move closer to a government that works for the people, not big money,” said Maryland PIRG Director Emily Scarr. “This is how democracy should work.”
Public funding of elections would limit the influence of wealthy donors and interest groups, while also encouraging a candidates from all walks of life to run for office.
MarylandPIRG partnered with community members, local and national legislators, and like-minded organizations to push for campaign finance reform.”
Photo Credit: MDP_big-money-politics_1018_public-domain_WEB.jpg
See the Campaign
Topics
Updates
New Whitepaper: Politics of Power
Energy Conservation & Efficiency
EmPOWER Maryland reform heads to House floor
Maryland PIRG’s 2023 Energy Efficiency and Consumer Rights Champion
Ensuring the right to vote with special elections
Energy Conservation & Efficiency