Montgomery County councilmembers voted Tuesday to strengthen its public campaign finance law.
Council Vice President Kate Stewart explained, “The purpose of the county’s campaign finance law is to encourage greater voter participation in county elections, increase opportunities for more residents to run for office and reduce the influence of large contributions from businesses, political action groups and other large organizations.”
Under the new law, certified candidates can keep more money to pay for post-election expenses. Candidates now will be able to keep $10,000, and that amount could increase every four years depending on the rate of inflation. Currently, they can retain $5,000.
It also requires periodic adjustments to permissible contribution limits.
“Our democracy is at a crossroads. Given the recent national election, we need to return power to the voters and away from special interests. We must get big money out of politics,” said Councilmember Evan Glass.
He added, “This legislation is a step toward dismantling the barriers that have allowed big money to dominate our political system. We need to restore the power of individual voters and small dollar donors – a concept that is vital to a healthy democracy. Public financing is a critical step toward leveling the political playing field.”
Councilmember Gabe Albornoz said, “Public campaign financing levels the playing field for those inspired to serve.”
Both Councilmembers Natali Fani-González and Kristen Mink pointed to the diversity of council members who were able to run due to the public campaign finance law.
“As a first-generation immigrant and former teacher sitting on the most diverse County Council in our history, I can say with confidence that our public campaign financing system has done exactly what it’s supposed to do: open doors,” Mink said.
