According to polling data from MayDay.US, 94% of Republicans and 92% of Democrats believe special interest money has too much influence in American political campaigns, with over 80% of members in both parties agreeing that the system for funding elections needs “fundamental reform”. Similarly, a 2016 Ipsos poll revealed that reducing the influence of money in politics was one of the top 5 issues for Independent voters, and was even in the top 3 issues for a third of Independents.

At the local level, developers are by far the most well-funded and influential special interest groups. As a result, The No Developer/No Dark Money Pledge found at HoCoPledge.com was created by Howard County community members and organizations for political candidates to sign, promising not to accept campaign donations from Developer or unknown “Dark Money” sources. Candidates running for Howard County Executive, County Council, Board of Education, State elected office, and other races in 2022 are encouraged to sign.

As a Howard County resident, I believe it’s time to eliminate developer money from politics. I support the No Developer Donation Pledge, and want all candidates running in Howard County to sign on as a Pledge Champion.