Key facts
- Maryland will hold a special legislative session starting August 3.
- The session will consider a constitutional amendment for congressional redistricting.
- The amendment, if approved by the legislature and voters, could allow for mid-decade map changes.
- The goal is to shape the congressional map for the 2028 election cycle.
- Governor Wes Moore supports the legislative effort.
Maryland lawmakers are scheduled to convene for a special legislative session beginning August 3 to consider a constitutional amendment related to congressional redistricting. The proposed amendment aims to establish a framework for future redistricting efforts, potentially allowing for mid-decade map adjustments, with the goal of influencing the state's U.S. House delegation composition for the 2028 election cycle.
Legislative leaders announced the special session following a previous unsuccessful attempt earlier this year to redraw the state's congressional maps. The current Democratic-led General Assembly seeks to send a constitutional amendment to voters in November. If approved by both chambers and subsequently by the electorate, this amendment could pave the way for a revised congressional map, potentially securing an 8-0 advantage for Democrats, who currently hold a 7-1 majority.
House Speaker Joseline Peña-Melnyk stated that the amendment would "clarify" the state constitution in response to a 2022 court ruling that invalidated a prior map. She emphasized the need for a transparent process and for voters to have the final say on constitutional changes. However, Republicans, represented by Senate Minority Whip Justin Ready, have criticized the move as a partisan power grab intended to eliminate the voice of their sole representative, Congressman Andy Harris.
Voting districts are typically redrawn every decade, but recent political maneuvers, including calls from President Donald Trump to redraw districts mid-decade, have intensified partisan redistricting battles nationwide. A recent U.S. Supreme Court decision impacting the Voting Rights Act has further emboldened Republicans in some Southern states to pursue new district configurations. Governor Wes Moore has expressed his support for the legislative action, appreciating the lawmakers' agreement to address redistricting.