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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 3, 2026Miami-Dade

Maryland lawmakers advance constitutional amendment to change congressional redistricting rules for 2028

The Maryland Legislature is advancing a proposed constitutional amendment that would clarify that requirements for compact districts and natural boundaries apply only to state legislative districts, not congressional ones. If passed by the legislature and approved by voters on November 3, 2028, the change would allow lawmakers to redraw congressional maps with fewer restrictions, potentially targeting the state's lone Republican-held district.

redistrictingelectionsconstitutional amendmentMaryland General Assemblygerrymandering
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Why It Matters

This amendment would fundamentally change the legal standards for drawing congressional district lines in Maryland, directly impacting the political composition of the state's U.S. House delegation and the representation of rural voters.

Key Facts

  • The proposed amendment would exempt congressional districts from requirements that they be compact and respect natural boundaries.
  • The amendment requires a three-fifths vote in both chambers of the Maryland General Assembly to reach the ballot.
  • If passed by the legislature, the measure would be put to voters on the Nov. 3, 2028, general election ballot.
  • The change is intended to allow for the potential redrawing of congressional maps for the 2028 election cycle.
  • Maryland currently has eight congressional districts, seven of which are held by Democrats.
  • A 2022 court ruling previously struck down Maryland's congressional maps as extreme partisan gerrymandering.
  • The amendment is framed by supporters as a response to redistricting actions taken by Republican-led states.
  • Opponents argue the move would disenfranchise rural voters by breaking up areas of common interest.
  • Governor Wes Moore stated the proposal gives voters the final say on the redistricting process.

Who's Mentioned

personAndy Harris“U.S. Representative for Maryland's 1st District and chairman of the House Freedo”personBill Ferguson“Democratic state Senate President.”personWes Moore“Governor of Maryland supporting the initiative.”organizationMaryland General Assembly“The state legislative body advancing the amendment.”personMary Beth Carozza“State Senator opposing the amendment.”