Maryland General Assembly to Address Redistricting in August Special Session

The Maryland General Assembly will convene in August for a special session to address constitutional changes related to congressional redistricting. This follows a Supreme Court ruling that the Voting Rights Act does not require the establishment of majority-minority districts. Democratic leaders, including Senate President Bill Ferguson and House Speaker Joseline Peña-Melnyk, emphasized the need for a clear legal framework for redistricting in light of recent court decisions. The proposed constitutional amendment, which has not yet been disclosed, aims to allow mid-decade adjustments to district lines. To proceed, the proposal must receive a three-fifths majority in the General Assembly, where Democrats hold a significant advantage, before being placed on the November ballot for voter approval. Governor Wes Moore expressed support for the legislative efforts, while Maryland Republicans criticized the initiative, claiming it undermines the state constitution. Currently, Maryland's congressional delegation includes one Republican, Rep. Andy Harris, who may be a target for Democrats in future elections. The outcomes of this special session are expected to influence the 2028 elections.