Press Release
PG County Voters Deserve an Accessible Special Election
County Council must prioritize maximizing turnout
MD Press
Media Contacts
Dera Silvestre
East Regional Communications Strategist
dsilvestre@commoncause.org
617-807-4032
Joanne Antoine
Executive Director
jantoine@commoncause.org
443-906-0442
Press Release
Gov. Hogan Urged to ‘focus on providing safe options’ for voting in Nov 3 Election
Unfortunately, instead of recommending a plan that would promote social distancing by sending every eligible voter a mail ballot, protecting early vote, and ensuring there are enough polling locations open to prevent long lines, the State Board's recommendations actually create more confusion, bureaucracy, and fewer options for voters.
Press Release
Governor urged to ‘immediately’ give SBE ‘clear direction’ for November elections
In the wake of the June 2nd primary elections, which saw long lines at polling places, Maryland voting rights organizations today urged Governor Larry Hogan to "immediately instruct" the State Board of Elections (SBE) regarding planning for November 3rd. The groups urged Gov. Hogan to direct the SBE "to mail every active voter a ballot and expand in-person and early voting options."
Press Release
Voting Rights Groups Urge Board of Elections to Take Mitigating Actions
Week-long Delay in Mailing Ballots Disadvantages Baltimore Voters
Press Release
Advocates Urge Governor Hogan to Prioritize Funding for Voter Education
On Tuesday, May 12th, voting rights advocates called on Governor Hogan to immediately increase efforts to inform voters of election changes ahead of June 2nd Primary Election. Read our letter.
Press Release
Common Cause Maryland Launches Campaign to Get Baltimore City Candidates on the Record About Democracy Reforms
Today, Common Cause Maryland is launching a new program to ensure voters know where Baltimore City candidates stand on practical solutions to the challenges facing our democracy.
Press Release
Today’s special election in Maryland CD-7 tests state’s vote by mail system
Today, voters in Maryland’s 7th Congressional District decide who will fulfill the remainder of Congressman Elijah Cummings’ term of office.
Due to COVID-19, this election is being conducted primarily by mail. Ballots were mailed to voters, starting April 8. In 2018, less than 5% of votes were cast by mail; and about 2% of mailed ballots were rejected rather than counted. Maryland does not yet have a process for voters to “cure” or correct ballots that have been rejected for reasons such as missing signatures. The...
Due to COVID-19, this election is being conducted primarily by mail. Ballots were mailed to voters, starting April 8. In 2018, less than 5% of votes were cast by mail; and about 2% of mailed ballots were rejected rather than counted. Maryland does not yet have a process for voters to “cure” or correct ballots that have been rejected for reasons such as missing signatures. The...
Press Release
Common Cause, Free Press, PEN America urge Governor Hogan to support local journalism in Maryland
Press Release
The Maryland State Board of Elections Must Provide In-Person Voting Option for Seventh Congressional District Special Election
We recognize the gravity of the circumstances created by COVID-19, and fully appreciate the work Maryland State Board of Elections staff have undertaken in the past few weeks to protect the health of the public while providing safe access to voting. But the Boards failure to provide any in-person voting option in the Seventh Congressional District Special Election will compromise the health of our democracy.
Press Release
Common Cause Maryland Urges Local Boards of Election to make Adequate Number of Vote Centers Available for 2020 Primary Election
In order to effectively accommodate voters under this emergency expansion of absentee voting, we recommend Montgomery County, Baltimore City, Prince George's County, and Baltimore County to establish the max number of Vote Centers allowed for the Primary Election. Additionally, we urge these Boards to select four locations that are accessible to voters using public transportation.
Press Release
Additional Recommendations to the Maryland State Board of Elections, COVID-19
We submitted the following comments to the Maryland State Board of Elections in advance of their meeting on April 2, 2020.
Press Release
During COVID-19 State of Emergency, We Must Maintain Transparency and Public Access to Maryland’s Government Proceedings
As public officials adopt emergency measures to protect public health, Common Cause Maryland encourages the maximization of transparency and remote public participation, and also limiting government business to priority functions necessary under the current emergency conditions
Press Release
Common Cause, League of Women Voters, other organizations recommend next steps for Maryland elections amid COVID-19
Common Cause Maryland, the League of Women Voters of Maryland, Maryland PIRG and ACLU of Maryland today urged Governor Larry Hogan and the Maryland Board of Elections to implement changes before the delayed 2020 Presidential Primary and the 7th Congressional District special election.