Governor Moore announced a mid-cycle redistricting effort in Maryland, launching a five-member advisory commission led by Angela Alsobrooks to propose new congressional maps aimed at ensuring fairness and representation. Moore framed the move as a defense of democracy amid partisan redistricting battles nationwide, particularly in Republican-led states, asserting that Maryland should not remain idle while others reshape political boundaries. Republican leaders immediately criticized the plan, with Delegate Kathy Szeliga calling it “Kabuki theater” and accusing the governor of political posturing. They are preparing legal challenges, pointing to their successful 2022 lawsuit that overturned Maryland’s congressional map for “extreme partisan gerrymandering.” Some Democrats also voiced caution, including Senate President Bill Ferguson, who warned that the effort carries legal and political risks and could distract from other legislative priorities.
Special session: Moore did not rule out calling a special session to consider the commission’s recommendations, suggesting one could occur by December. Republican lawmakers argue the process is a partisan maneuver designed to eliminate their representation, with Senate Minority Leader Stephen Hershey describing it as “a power grab disguised as reform.”
