This post is from eyeonannapolis.com <p>The Anne Arundel County Council voted to reduce a proposed increase to the Public Campaign Financing Fund, allocating $1.25 million instead of the $1.5 million recommended by a bipartisan commission.</p>
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<p>The vote drew criticism from James Kitchin, who is currently running for County Executive and had planned to utilize the public financing program for his campaign. Kitchin issued a statement after the decision, saying the move favors monied interests and undermines efforts to reduce the influence of large donors in local politics.</p>
<p>The bipartisan commission, which was established by the County Council and tasked with recommending funding levels for the program, unanimously supported the $1.5 million figure for Fiscal Year 2026. According to Kitchin, the Council’s decision to allocate less than the full recommendation bypasses the structure and intent of the program, which was created to encourage broader participation through small-dollar donations.</p>
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<p>The vote passed with support from the three Republican members of the Council and Council Chair Julie Hummer, a Democrat who has endorsed one of Kitchin’s opponents. Neither of Kitchin’s primary opponents (County Councilman Pete Smith and County Councilwoman Allison Pickard) is using the public financing option in their campaigns.</p>
<p>Supporters of the fund argue it offers a level playing field for candidates and builds public trust in government by reducing the influence of developers and corporate donors. Opponents have expressed concerns over the cost and timing of additional public funding during the budget cycle.</p>
<p>Despite the reduction, $1.25 million remains in the fund, which will be available to qualifying candidates in the 2026 election cycle. Kitchin said he will continue his publicly financed campaign and push for greater government transparency and accountability.</p>
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