Baltimore County officials are gearing up for the upcoming elections, with the Fair Election Fund Commission estimating a budget of $3.45 million needed to support candidates in the 2026 elections. During a recent meeting on January 13, 2025, members discussed projections for candidate participation in both primary and general elections, highlighting the impact of recent changes to the county council structure.

The commission anticipates that approximately five candidates will run for each council seat in the primaries, with a lower turnout expected for the general elections. Specifically, they estimate that around a third of candidates will utilize the Fair Election Fund, which aims to provide financial support to those participating in the electoral process. This funding initiative is designed to encourage a diverse range of candidates to run for office, thereby enhancing democratic representation.

Currently, the commission has allocated $1 million towards this budget, with plans to secure the remaining funds as the election date approaches. The discussions also included adjustments due to the addition of nine council seats, which could lead to an estimated 45 candidates vying for positions. This increase in seats is expected to foster greater competition and engagement among potential candidates.

As the commission continues to refine its budget and candidate projections, the focus remains on ensuring that the Fair Election Fund effectively supports a robust electoral process in Baltimore County. The next steps will involve further discussions on funding strategies and candidate outreach efforts, aiming to bolster participation in the upcoming elections.