Maryland lawmakers consider partisan redistricting for 2028

Maryland lawmakers are convening a special session to consider a constitutional amendment that would permit partisan redistricting, potentially enabling Democrats to secure an additional U.S. House seat by 2028. The current congressional map in the heavily Democratic state favors Democrats, who hold seven of its eight seats.

State Senate President Bill Ferguson, who had previously opposed redistricting efforts, has shifted his position following a U.S. Supreme Court decision that weakened the Voting Rights Act. Ferguson cited this decision as a catalyst for Republican-led states to redraw districts, which he views as a detrimental erosion of democratic norms.

The proposed amendment seeks to distinguish between state legislative districts and congressional districts, asserting that requirements for compactness and adherence to natural boundaries would apply only to the former. If the amendment receives a three-fifths majority vote in both legislative chambers, it will be presented to voters in the November general election. Approval by voters would then pave the way for redrawing congressional maps for the 2028 election cycle.

Republicans, including Representative Andy Harris, have strongly opposed the measure, labeling it a partisan power grab and a precursor to gerrymandering that would disenfranchise rural constituents. House Minority Leader Jason Buckel also raised concerns about the limited scope of testimony allowed during the special session.

Governor Wes Moore, a Democrat, has endorsed the initiative, framing it as a necessary countermeasure to Republican redistricting strategies in other states and emphasizing that the ultimate decision rests with the voters. This move is part of a broader national debate over redistricting, with both major parties aiming to influence congressional map configurations.