Maryland Calls August Special Session to Amend Redistricting Constitution

Maryland’s Democratic‑led General Assembly will reconvene from August 3‑5, 2026 for a special session to consider a constitutional amendment that would allow mid‑cycle congressional redistricting. Senate President Bill Ferguson and House Speaker Joseline Peña‑Melnyk said the measure is meant to “clarify” the state constitution after a 2022 court ruling that struck down a previous map.

The amendment would require a three‑fifths vote in both chambers and, if passed, would be placed on the November ballot for voter approval. If adopted, it could enable Democrats to redraw the state’s eight congressional districts ahead of the 2028 elections, potentially targeting the lone Republican seat held by Rep. Andy Harris. Republicans have condemned the effort as a power grab, with Senate Minority Whip Justin Ready and House minority whip Jesse Pippy warning it would silence Republican voters.

The move follows a U.S. Supreme Court decision that weakened the Voting Rights Act and a wave of partisan redistricting battles in other states. Governor Wes Moore has voiced support, saying the legislature must protect fair representation while the nation’s redistricting war intensifies.