Ellis-Andrews Campaign Launches Public Financing Drive, First Small Party in Maryland to Participate
Baltimore, MD – Today, Andy Ellis and Owen Silverman Andrews, Green Party candidates for Governor and Lieutenant Governor of Maryland, announced the official launch of their campaign’s participation in Maryland’s public campaign financing program. This marks the first time a small party gubernatorial campaign has entered the program, a significant step toward building a healthier, more democratic political system in the state.
Maryland’s Fair Campaign Financing Fund enables candidates for Governor to run free from corporate, PAC, and large-donor influence. To qualify, campaigns must raise at least 1,500 in-state donations totaling $120,000. Individual contributions are capped at $250 and matched with public funds on a tiered scale. For example, donations up to $50 are matched at $8 for every $1, making grassroots support the lifeblood of the campaign.
The Ellis-Andrews campaign made three key arguments for why public financing matters:
Public financing is an essential antidote to unchecked money in politics. It ensures that campaigns powered by ordinary people—not corporate interests—can contend on more equal ground.
Public financing is a check against party bosses and incumbents. By empowering small-dollar donors, it helps break the stranglehold of entrenched political machines.
Public financing is key to breaking down the two-party system. It gives independent and small party candidates the resources to compete, broadening the political choices available to Maryland voters.
“Public financing turns fundraising into organizing,” said Owen S. Andrews, candidate for lieutenant governor. “While they cash big checks from special interests, we are building a campaign rooted in connecting with real Marylanders. Every small donation is an act of community building a political alternative to a status quo only the 1% is satisfied with.”
“This is a historic moment,” said Andy Ellis, candidate for governor. “We are proud to be the first small party gubernatorial campaign in Maryland to enter public financing. It is an essential step toward building a multiparty democracy where healthier, more representative parties can thrive. Public financing is how we break free from a system rigged for only two voices.”
About the Ellis-Andrews Campaign
Andy Ellis and Owen Silverman Andrews are running for governor and lieutenant governor of Maryland on the Green Party line. Their campaign is committed to building a multiparty democracy, confronting the climate and economic crises with urgency, and centering the needs of working people over corporate interests.