ANNAPOLIS, MD—Seven of Maryland’s House of Delegates members on Tuesday launched the Maryland Freedom Caucus as the thirteenth group of legislators to join this national movement.

“Thirteen is a poignant number in Maryland, being one of the original thirteen colonies that banded together to fight for their independence from an oppressive, authoritarian government,” Maryland Freedom Caucus said in a press release. “Harkening back to the principles of representation by the people and for the people, the Maryland Freedom Caucus seeks to be the voice for all Marylanders who need hope in struggling times.”

The elected Chair of the Caucus, Delegate Matt Morgan, commented on the irony of being the thirteenth state to join the National Network, saying, “Maryland needs to get back to the ideals of America’s founders that set our country into motion. We aim to fill the void of conservative leaders in the Maryland General Assembly.”

As tax increases were announced on Tuesday morning in Governor Wes Moore’s Baltimore Sun op-ed, the Freedom Caucus highlighted the urgent need to make budget cuts and stop taking money from citizens to expand the reach of government. Congressman Andy Harris said during the press conference, “The National Freedom Caucus was ahead of its time when speaking about fiscal responsibility. We need to stop blaming other people. The governor is putting the fault on anybody but the Maryland General Assembly – which has been spending its way into oblivion. We must restore fiscal responsibility to save the republic!”

Former governor Bob Ehrlich attended the press conference with his wife, Kendel, lending their support to the Maryland Freedom Caucus. “In difficult times, we want leadership!” Governor Ehrlich declared. “In politics, many are driven by ego, but these people are here for the right reasons. Clearly, these are the leaders emerging in Maryland today.”

Delegate Kathy Szeliga, the Vice-Chair of the Caucus, expressed her vision for Maryland’s future: “We believe Maryland is worth saving and will support an American agenda based on common sense.”

Addressing the press questions, Delegate Ryan Nawrocki, elected as the Whip of the Caucus, highlighted the need for bipartisan solutions: “Our package of legislation is backed up by strong polling numbers across all demographics and political affiliations. Marylanders want to be safer, wealthier, and more free.”

“Marylanders feel the void of political leadership that is chasing residents from our state,” added Delegate Robin Grammer of Baltimore County. “If you need leadership to passionately fight for common sense values in Annapolis, you can look to the Freedom Caucus.”

Delegate Mark Fisher underscored the importance of fiscal restraint, saying, “For too long, Annapolis politicians treat Marylanders like an ATM. The Freedom Caucus is the principled voice of limited government.”

Speaking from her perspective as a rural representative, Delegate Lauren Arikan stated, “As a representative of a rural area of Maryland, we will not be forgotten. Government overreach has dipped into our land, families, and pocketbooks. The success of the State Freedom Caucus Network will fuel our work, which we have been championing for years.”

Concluding the event, Delegate Brian Chisholm of Anne Arundel County remarked, “I am proud to stand alongside my fellow members of the Freedom Caucus as we champion and protect our fundamental values: freedom of speech, free enterprise, fiscal responsibility, fair and transparent elections, and individual liberty. Together, we will work to forge strong alliances both within our ranks and with like-minded individuals across the country to ensure that government remains accountable to the people. We are governed by the consent of the people, and I will never lose sight of this crucial principle.”

Photo via Delegate Kathy Szeliga