MICHAEL RIKER for MARYLAND HOUSE OF DELEGATES DISTRICT 23

Issues

Prince George’s County, Maryland, is a community rich in culture and diversity. Yet, amid the suburban growth and the hustle of everyday life, a deep frustration simmers among residents—stemming from the feeling of being unheard and overlooked by the very leaders they elected to represent them. As the election draws near, it’s crucial to examine the pressing issues that demand urgent attention and ask why our voices seem to go unheard.

At the forefront is the issue of self-serving politicians. Time and again, we’ve seen elected officials prioritize their careers and personal gains over the needs of the community. Once in office, they often become disconnected from the daily realities of their constituents, retreating into inaction despite promises of change during their campaigns. This has led to growing cynicism among voters, many of whom feel that their participation in the democratic process is increasingly futile.

This disillusionment is heightened by the persistent issue of crime in our neighborhoods. Despite various campaigns and initiatives, crime rates remain alarmingly high, leaving residents feeling unsafe in their own communities. The response from our leaders has been inadequate, often limited to superficial measures that fail to address the root causes of crime. This lack of meaningful action has eroded trust in local government and left many wondering if their safety is truly a priority.

Simultaneously, rising property and other taxes are squeezing homeowners and renters alike. Everything that involves your motor vehicles from emissions to registrations are going through the roof. Though these increases are often justified as necessary for community development, they have not led to noticeable improvements in public services or infrastructure. Instead, residents see developers taking over large parts of the county, building luxury apartments and commercial properties that cater to outsiders rather than meeting the needs of the existing community. As a result, long-time residents are being priced out, their neighborhoods transformed into something unrecognizable.

The state of our schools further underscores the gap between political rhetoric and reality. Many educational institutions in Prince George’s County are aging, with outdated facilities and insufficient resources. Our children are forced to learn in environments that do not support their growth and success. Despite the tireless efforts of teachers and staff, and the increase of administrators, the lack of in education is a glaring oversight that speaks volumes about our leaders’ lack of priorities.

Infrastructure, or the lack thereof, is another pressing concern. Roads are riddled with potholes, public transportation is inadequate, and essential community services are stretched thin. The focus on new developments and attracting external investments has overshadowed the basic needs of the county’s residents. This disparity is not just inconvenient; it highlights a governance model that prioritizes profit over people.

As we approach the upcoming election season it is imperative that the citizens of Prince George’s County make their voices heard within the State. Voting is not just a right; it is a powerful tool for change. We must demand accountability from our leaders and elect officials who are genuinely committed to addressing the issues that matter to us. We need representatives who will focus on reducing crime, managing property taxes responsibly, managing our schools correctly, and improving infrastructure and NO NEW TAXES or FEES.

It is time to break the cycle of self-serving politics and build a government that listens to and acts on the concerns of its constituents. We need COMMON SENSE in our State and County. The future of Prince George’s County and the state depend on our collective effort to hold our leaders accountable and push for meaningful change. We must engage in the political process, stay informed, and vote for candidates with a proven track record of service and integrity.

Prince George’s County and the State of Maryland are communities full of potential. Let’s ensure that our voices are not only heard but also acted upon with COMMON SENSE AND NO MORE TAXES.

Here’s a full breakdown of the new or increased taxes and fees in Maryland

$497 Million in new sales taxes on B2B data and IT services
$367 Million in capital gains tax increases
$344 million from income tax increases
$150 million + from increasing the vehicle sales tax (excise tax) from 6% to 6.5%
$80 million from DOUBLING vehicle title fees to $200 Max
$51 million from increasing vehicle registration fees
$47 million from new tax on short term vehicle rentals 3.5%
$39 million from raising sales tax on cannabis 12%
$32 million from tax on sports betting 20%
$21 million from eliminating some sales tax exemptions
$9 million from increased fees for historic vehicle plates
$ees9 million from new tax on vending machine purchases 6%

PLUS

New $5 fee on every tire purchased and 25% increase in the tire recycling fee
Increased fishing license fees
New Unemployment insurance fee
New rental property lead registration fee
Increased Security Agent fee
Alter weights and measures registration and process fees
Increased surface mining fees
Increases voluntary cleanup program fees
Increases fees for certification of nurseries licensing of plant brokers and dealers, and inspection of nursery stock
Increases horse establishment license renewal fee
Increases wholesale seedsman permit fee
Increases various Maryland Department of the Environment fees
Increases filing fee for foreclosures
New occupational licensing background check fee
Increasing dealer and titling fees for boats
New registration fee on rental fleet vehicles
VEIP for $20 to $30