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Maryland lawmakers convene special session to consider constitutional amendment for congressional redistricting

Maryland lawmakers have convened a special session to consider a constitutional amendment that would redefine the rules for drawing congressional districts. The amendment aims to clarify that specific requirements, such as compactness and natural boundaries, apply only to state legislative districts rather than congressional ones. This move follows a 2022 court ruling that struck down a Democratic-led congressional map for being excessively partisan. Democratic leaders, including Senate President Bill Ferguson, argue the amendment provides necessary flexibility to avoid future legal challenges. Conversely, Republican lawmakers, including House Minority Leader Jason Buckel and Senate Minority Leader Steve Hershey, have criticized the move as a partisan power grab intended to eliminate the state's only Republican representative, Andy Harris. Former Governor Larry Hogan criticized the proposal as an abuse of power, noting that the state had previously won a court battle against extreme gerrymandering. If the amendment passes the legislature, it will go to voters in the November general election for final approval.

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