Based on the OpenSecrets data, the Baltimore Orioles have been identified as recipients of political contributions, including those from dark money sources. This raises concerns about the potential for corporate complicity in politically influencing elections and policy-making in ways that may support authoritarian practices. Such entanglements, even if indirect, are problematic from an anti‑fascist perspective as they may contribute to the normalization of financial influence in government.

Baltimore Orioles Profile: Recipients • OpenSecrets

Employee feedback on Glassdoor indicates favorable working conditions and a respectful environment. Such positive labor relations contribute to ethical business practices and demonstrate a commitment to fair treatment and inclusion, which are antithetical to authoritarian and exclusionary labor policies.

Baltimore Orioles: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion | Glassdoor

The protest highlights serious concerns over the exploitation of subcontracted workers at the team store. Although the Orioles claim no direct involvement, their decision to subcontract the store and their reluctance to intervene despite clear worker demands suggests a passive complicity in sustaining poor labor conditions. From a left-leaning perspective, this indirectly supports oppressive labor practices that undermine union rights and fair labor standards.

Orioles team store workers picket for better contract

The sale structure, including discussions around tax avoidance strategies and unclear ownership transition details, raises concerns about economic practices that favor elite interests and reduce accountability. This economic structuring may indirectly contribute to broader systemic inequalities.

Further details emerge around new Rubenstein-led Orioles ownership group

The Baltimore Orioles have not reported any lobbying on specific bills in 2024 as per the OpenSecrets data, which aligns with a lower risk profile in the Political Contributions and Lobbying Efforts category. Although historical records of lobbying exist, the current period shows minimal involvement, reducing the risk of facilitating authoritarian influences through political funding.

Baltimore Orioles Profile: Lobbying • OpenSecrets

Baltimore Orioles' early-2023 decision to split concession operations and hand over merchandise sales to Fanatics has resulted in a labor dispute at Camden Yards. Retail workers, represented by UNITE HERE Local 7, protest against part-time scheduling, inadequate wages, and denial of benefits, which underscores serious failures in upholding labor rights and ethical responsibility within the business practices framework.

Camden Yards retail workers fight for full-time hours, better benefits

The Orioles’ decision to hire experienced lobbyists, including former congressional aides, to secure federal funding for stadium redevelopment emphasizes their strategic engagement in political processes. While the redevelopment could be argued as a means to rejuvenate community infrastructure, the underlying pursuit of public funds for private gain raises serious concerns regarding the potential corruption of democratic processes and reinforces patterns of crony capitalism. Such activities can contribute to the concentration of corporate influence in public policy, which is a red flag for anti-fascist groups wary of authoritarian encroachments in government-business relations.

Orioles lobby for federal cash for stadium redevelopment - POLITICO

The report reveals that minor league players, particularly those associated with the Baltimore Orioles' affiliate, have faced severely exploitative conditions including inadequate pay and lack of proper housing. Such labor practices are symptomatic of a broader disregard for worker rights, reinforcing systemic imbalances that can indirectly bolster authoritarian power structures by perpetuating economic inequality and worker disenfranchisement.

Labor Issues in Baseball Illustrate America's Abysmal Worker Treatment ...

The Orioles' dedication to promoting diversity and empowering women reflects a progressive approach to business practices and ethical responsibility. By establishing initiatives that bolster leadership opportunities for women, they counteract deeply entrenched norms that contribute to systemic inequality and authoritarian attitudes. This commitment not only enhances internal corporate culture but also sets a positive example in the community.

Inspirational Women of Birdland | Baltimore Orioles - MLB.com

Baltimore Orioles owner Peter Angelos contributed a substantial sum exceeding $270,000 to a Super PAC advocating for pro-Democratic candidates in 2016. This political donation, situated within the realm of Political Contributions and Lobbying Efforts, indicates an active effort to counteract authoritarian tendencies by endorsing progressive political figures. Such donations are viewed positively from an anti-fascist perspective as they oppose the support of authoritarian policies.

Some MLB owners have given massive donations to politicians — here are the biggest

The investigation into the Baltimore Orioles highlights potential abuses in labor relations, notably with clubhouse, administrative workers, and interns possibly receiving below-minimum wage and being denied overtime. This suggests a broader pattern of exploitation and neglect of basic labor rights, undermining ethical business practices.

U.S. Labor Department Investigating Pay Practices of Oakland A’s and Baltimore Orioles

The federal investigation revealed that the Baltimore Orioles, along with other MLB teams, may be involved in practices that violate U.S. wage standards. Allegations include underpayment of employees, failure to pay overtime, and non-compliance with labor regulations. Such practices undermine worker rights and contribute to an environment where economic exploitation can pave the way for authoritarian control in labor relations.

Investigation of Pay Practices Targets Major League Baseball Teams