The Prince George’s County Council narrowly approved public financing for local political candidates early Wednesday, following a marathon meeting that marked the end of this year’s legislative session.
Citing concerns about how the county would afford to provide matching funds to political candidates who agree to forgo large donations, the council delayed implementation of the bill until 2026.
The legislation, which was backed by a variety of progressive groups, makes Prince George’s the third Maryland county to approve public financing, following Montgomery and Howard counties. If County Executive Rushern L. Baker III (D) signs the measure, Prince George’s will join nearly 30 other jurisdictions — including the District, New York City and San Francisco — that offer matching funds to candidates, according to Demos, a left-leaning think tank.
Baker spokesman Barry Hudson said “the county executive will review the legislation” before making a decision.
Click here to read the rest of the article written by Rachel Chason over at the Washington Post