BALTIMORE (WBFF) — Half of Maryland’s likely voters say they are struggling financially or just getting by, according to a new statewide poll that points to utility costs and broader economic anxiety as major concerns heading into the coming year.
The Maryland Now survey, conducted by Zenith Research for Blended Public Affairs in partnership with Perry Jacobson, found 51% of voters described themselves as either “really struggling financially” or “just getting by.” Another 53% said they are worried that they or someone in their household will be unable to pay household bills over the next year.
Those financial pressures are reflected in voters’ priorities for state leaders. Asked to select up to two issues they most want Gov. Wes Moore and the Maryland General Assembly to focus on over the next 12 months, 40% chose lowering electricity and utility bills — the highest share of any issue. Creating jobs and growing the economy followed at 32%, with fighting crime and improving public safety at 26%…