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Lobbyist Contributions and Corporate Spending Soar to New Highs in Maryland Politics

A new analysis has renewed pay-to-play concerns by showing lobbying dollars at record levels.

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.