Franchot writes elections chairman about slots language, anti-slots group to submit alternative

In a letter sent to State Elections Chair Robert Walker Wednesday, Comptroller Peter Franchot expressed concerned about the ballot language used for an upcoming referendum vote on slot machines, calling for a review of Secretary of State John McDonough's language.

"It is clear that the language submitted to you by Secretary of State John McDonough does not fairly characterize this important Constitutional amendment," Franchot wrote.

"The Baltimore Sun has described the language as 'misleading' and recommends that it be rewritten; The Washington Post has said the language 'misrepresents' the proposal before Maryland voters. Voices from across the political spectrum have raised concerns about this language, concerns that the State Board of Elections cannot ignore."

Franchot sent copies of the letter to Gov. Martin O'Malley, Attorney General Douglas Gansler, McDonough and Board of Elections Administartor Linda Lamone before sending it to the press.

In an interview with PolitickerMD.com at the Democratic National Convention in Denver this week, Franchot blasted the ballot language as "biased" and "one-sided," saying it gave an advantage to the gambling industry.

Also on Wednesday, the group Marylanders United to Stop Slots announced they will attend Thursday's Board of Elections meeting, where they plan to submit alternative ballot language of their own.