Rep. Andy Harris Threatens Prosecution of Student Reporter Over Recording

Rep. Andy Harris, R-Md., threatened to prosecute a student reporter from the University of Maryland for attempting to record his responses during a public event. In a video shared by News4’s partners at The Baltimore Banner, Harris stated, "You do not have my permission to record! If you record, we will refer you to the prosecutor." The student reporter pointed out that other journalists were also recording. Harris cited Maryland’s Wiretapping and Electronic Surveillance Act, which prohibits recording private conversations without consent from both parties. However, the law does not apply in public settings where there is no reasonable expectation of privacy. The exchange continued for several minutes, during which the reporter attempted to ask Harris about the Iran war. Harris responded, "You’re gonna have to take her camera. She is violating the law. In fact, get an officer in here." News4 reached out to Harris’ office for comment but did not receive a response. Harris, who is running for re-election, had recently participated in a debate where he faced criticism regarding the Iran war and rising diesel prices. Pamela Wood, a reporter from The Baltimore Banner, noted that Harris had invited reporters to interview him after the debate. Attorney Kevin Goldberg, vice president of the Freedom Forum, stated that the two-party consent laws would not apply in this situation since Harris was addressing a group of reporters in a public space. Goldberg emphasized that reporters cannot be denied their rights simply due to a disagreement with their coverage or questions. The conversation concluded with the student reporter asking Harris about his support for the First Amendment, to which he replied, "All right guys, she’s ruining your chance to get an answer about anything. See y’all. Thank her profusely." Harris’ Democratic opponent, Dan Schwartz, criticized him in a statement, saying that Harris is "out of touch" and more focused on conflicts than providing answers.