In another sign that the Maryland Democratic gubernatorial field is moving far to the left, one of the leading candidates for governor is now publicly embracing Bernie Sanders’ “free” college plan – and establishment Democrats are refusing to oppose it, dodging questions from reporters.
The Washington Post is now reporting that candidate for governor Ben Jealous told a “group of progressive activists” this week that he will work to impose “free” higher education if elected.
The problem? Just like Bernie Sanders offered vague, outlandish promises without details, Jealous refuses to say how much it will cost taxpayers, or how he would pay for it.
The Washington Post reports, “Jealous has not estimated how much a Maryland tuition-free state program would cost, how many students would benefit or what type of income-eligibility requirements would be required.”
Fearing a revolt from the progressive activist base, establishment candidates for governor roundly refused to oppose the proposal that would could force massive increases in government spending and taxes.
The Washington Post explains, “Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz, who also is running, did not respond to the question of whether he supports tuition-free college.”
"Krishanti Vignarajah, a former policy director for Michelle Obama who also is running in the June primary, did not return a call for comment. Prince George’s County Executive Rushern L. Baker III, who led the field in a recent poll that matched candidates up against incumbent Gov. Larry Hogan (R), declined to comment on whether he supported tuition-free public higher education.”
Kevin Kamenetz, Krishanti Vignarajah, and Rushern Baker owe voters an answer – do they too support “free” college and if so, how will they pay for it?
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