Maryland Governor Wes Moore praised the state General Assembly for approving a constitutional amendment aimed at overhauling the congressional redistricting process. The amendment, which will be presented to voters in November, seeks to clarify how congressional districts in Maryland are drawn. This decision was made during a special summer session and will be signed by Moore, allowing it to be placed on the ballot.
Moore described the proposal as a necessary response to redistricting efforts in Republican-led states, particularly those led by Texas, which could influence the balance of power in the U.S. House. He emphasized the importance of national redistricting reform and stated that Maryland would not remain inactive while other states engage in redistricting that could undermine voting rights.
The amendment, if ratified by voters, would allow Maryland residents to have the final say on any new congressional map through the constitutional amendment process. Currently, nine out of Maryland's ten congressional seats are held by Democrats. As Republican-led states advance their own redistricting plans ahead of the midterm elections, Democratic lawmakers in Maryland have acknowledged that their efforts are also aimed at influencing the congressional landscape for the 2028 presidential election. Moore reiterated that the amendment keeps Maryland involved in the national redistricting discussion while ensuring that the decision ultimately lies with the voters.