As the legislative season gets underway, snowstorms and shifting schedules are adding an unexpected layer of complexity to the Maryland political scene. Lawmakers are scrambling to meet fundraising deadlines ahead of the General Assembly’s session, while the political community navigates staffing updates and other personnel news from Capitol Hill.
A winter storm in Maryland on Monday caused a ripple effect, forcing the postponement and rescheduling of several political fundraisers, events that were already packed into a short window before the start of the General Assembly. While snowstorms typically cause inconvenience, this one made for an especially chaotic situation in Annapolis, where fundraisers for state legislators and elected officials had been planned in abundance. The cancellation or shift to virtual events in some cases reflected the scramble to adapt, ensuring contributors could still fulfill their obligations before the fundraising blackout took effect.
Fundraisers Hit by Snowstorm Chaos
The impact of the snowstorm was not just felt on the roads but in the fundraising sector. Nearly 60 fundraisers had been slated for the days leading up to the legislative session. Maryland’s law prohibits legislators from soliciting or accepting contributions while the General Assembly is in session, which runs from noon on Wednesday through April 7. This makes the days before the session crucial for those looking to gather donations ahead of the political freeze. The storm threw a wrench into those plans.
Although many events were disrupted by the weather, the political community adapted quickly. Several fundraisers were either canceled, rescheduled, or moved online, highlighting how resilient Maryland’s political scene can be in the face of unexpected challenges. Despite these hurdles, politicians can still collect donations via checks and credit cards up until the deadline, which provides some leeway for lawmakers and consultants working against the clock.
One event that remained a highlight on the calendar was the Maryland Democratic Party pre-session luncheon. Traditionally one of the most important fundraisers before the General Assembly kicks off, the event will take place Tuesday at the Westin Hotel in Annapolis. On the program for the luncheon were several notable political figures, including Gov. Wes Moore, Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller, and House Speaker Adrienne Jones. The luncheon, part fundraiser and part political rally, is set to gather prominent Maryland Democrats for a display of unity before the legislative session begins in earnest.
Alsobrooks Sets Up for First Term in U.S. Senate
Beyond fundraising, Maryland’s newest U.S. senator, Angela D. Alsobrooks, has been busy setting up her office and assembling her team. Sworn in on Friday, Alsobrooks wasted no time getting to work. With staffing decisions and committee assignments already in place, the senator from Maryland’s 4th district has made clear her priorities as she enters her first term in the Senate.
Alsobrooks has hired Zephranie Buetow as her chief of staff. Buetow is no stranger to Washington, D.C., with significant experience in both the legislative and executive branches of the federal government. She most recently served in the Biden administration as the assistant secretary for legislative affairs at the Department of Homeland Security. Buetow’s resume includes stints as a special assistant to the president and liaison to the Senate, and as legislative director for Sen. Gary Peters (D-Mich.). Her previous role also saw her serve as legislative counsel to former Sen. Mary Landrieu (D-La.), focusing on homeland security and judicial issues.
Alsobrooks’ team is rounding into shape as the senator prepares for the work ahead. With key committee assignments already made, she is poised to have a strong voice in shaping policy and legislation in the Senate. Buetow’s experience will be crucial in guiding Alsobrooks through the complexities of Capitol Hill as she seeks to build her influence and address key issues facing the state and the country.
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