ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) — With just three shopping days left until Christmas, Comptroller Peter Franchot is asking shoppers to share the wealth.

Political reporter Pat Warren explains who that share might go to.

Small business owners put holiday shoppers on their Christmas wish list.

“That looks good and it fits my budget, too. I’ll grow poor in service to my state,” Franchot said.

The comptroller did a little Christmas shopping during lunchtime in Annapolis, hoping to encourage other holiday shoppers to do the same.

“The request is spend it local ’cause this is what makes the state’s economy move,” Franchot said.

For many businesses, the holiday season is the make or break time of year, so before you drive to the mall, remember your local shops first.

“We love our big businesses but it is the small businesses that provide most of the jobs and most of the economic activity,” Franchot said.

Consider it your Christmas gift to the go-to store around the corner.

Leaders around the state have been encouraging consumers to support local businesses this holiday season.