Poll: Taxes to erase deficits pose political problem for Moore

Governor continues to enjoy high job approval, but survey shows some softening of support

A majority of Marylanders oppose tax increases to erase a nearly $3 billion budget deficit projected for the coming fiscal year, a political challenge — and risk — for Gov. Wes Moore (D).

The results of a poll released Tuesday by Annapolis-based Gonzales Research & Media are unsurprising, but they may not be welcome news for Moore, who has yet to fulfill some of his biggest promises as he eyes re-election and perhaps a run for president.

“What we’re talking about is the deficit, and the reality is that there is very little appetite for any kind of tax increase,” pollster Patrick Gonzales said.

“Voters constantly express a willingness to pay taxes for needed services like transportation and public safety, but not for a problem they believe their elected representatives created,” he said.

Moore and Senate President Bill Ferguson (D-Baltimore) have said that there will be a “high bar” for any tax increases in 2025. While neither has indicated that the standard has been met, both have indicated some willingness to have the discussion.

Personal income, property and sales taxes represent three of the largest revenue sources for the state. No proposal has been made public and the Gonzales poll focused only on support or opposition for each tax.

More than three of four people who responded said they oppose an increase in the income tax rate. That majority opposition cuts across political affiliations, racial and age demographics.

Similarly, 73% said they oppose an increase in the sales tax. When it comes to property tax increases, 77% said they were opposed.

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