Overview

• Lobbyist donations to Maryland campaigns have jumped 75% to $2.6 million since the 2022 election.
• Companies and lobbyists spent $58 million during the first half of 2025’s 90-day legislative session, marking a steep year-over-year increase.
• Gov. Wes Moore has received $285,171 from registered lobbyists since 2021, making him the top beneficiary, with Speaker Adrienne Jones at $248,000 and Senate President Bill Ferguson at $210,000.
• Maryland law bars donations to lawmakers during the session, but critics warn that large pre-session contributions fuel pay-to-play perceptions and undermine public trust.
• Transparency advocates point to stricter contribution caps in California and Massachusetts and are urging Maryland to tighten disclosure requirements.