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Governor Wes Moore presents a trophy to John Velazquez for winning the 148th running of the Preakness Stakes. (Credit: Governor Wes Moore/ Facebook)
5-23-2023 2:22pm
Maryland Taxpayers Foot $200,000 Bill For State Officials' Preakness Stakes Tent
Van Fisher
Editor
BALTIMORE COUNTY - A group of 80 Maryland politicians, officials, and business executives racked up a $200,000 tab at the Preakness Stakes, the Baltimore Sun reports: a bill that will be passed on to Maryland Taxpayers.
The costs were split between several state agencies, including commerce, transportation, natural resources, agriculture, housing and community development, and the state lottery. Using this enormous sum, politicians wined and dined in an invite-only tent where food, drinks, and tickets were complimentary.
The Preakness Stakes has traditionally been a gathering place for Maryland's upper echelons for networking and socializing. In 2019, the most recent Preakness before the pandemic, Governor Larry Hogan's private tent accounted for a $145,000 expense.
The Baltimore Banner compiled a list of attendees of the exclusive tent, with notable figures such as Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski featured.
The Banner also reported the presence of key business leaders like Michael Arrington, CEO of the lobbying and government relations firm Capitol Connections, and Eddie C. Brown, a philanthropist, and founder of Brown Capital Management.
Replies
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Neighbor
5-24-2023 7:03am
Another Governor that talks the talk but, don’t walk the walk! Political Elite!
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Jacob Montgomery
Neighbor
5-24-2023 9:05am
This is just the beginning of the INSANE, reckless, wasteful spending you'll see & hear about. Most teens have better spending habits then these folks. Don't say "I didn't TELL YOU" because I didn't vote for them, and, I did " TOLD YOU SO "
Fletch Jones
Neighbor
5-24-2023 8:47am
These politicians are the sludge of society. Wes and Johnny and the gang. Maybe a reporter could ask them about it, but they won’t. These politicians are horrible.
Barbara Bubb
Neighbor
5-24-2023 1:13pm
I think this is so wasteful for just one day! The city is increasing peoples water bills in Baltimore City, Baltimore County & Harford County 4.9% as of July 1st for upgrades of the water pipes and structure for 12 months but can spend our tax money on this canopy/tent for something not needed! I say no to what the governor is doing!
