I was pleased to read The Baltimore Sun's article on the small donor matching program on the ballot and publicly funded campaigns in Howard County ("Voters will decide if Howard County will have publicly funded campaigns," Oct. 19). Question A on the ballot is a chance for us to amplify ordinary voices by pushing our representatives to develop a broad base of support instead of relying on bigger donations to cover their fundraising targets. With donations capped at $150 for candidates who opt into the small donor matching program by rejecting corporate contributions, only candidates with strong, appealing platforms and extensive support will raise a competitive fund for their election campaign.
County Executive Allan Kittleman mischaracterized the program when he reduces it to "Do you want your tax dollars to go to a political candidate you oppose?"
In fact, it's poor taste to make this a partisan issue when the dangers of partisanship and polarization are so evident at the national level. Question A is about creating a system where people who represent my interests and yours can get into office without having to court special interests with deep pockets. With this system, we can have so much more ownership over our candidates, elections and democracy. So, while you might be on the fence for other ballot items, vote Yes on A!
Sana Siddiq, Glenwood