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yesterday

Adrienne Jones Steps Down as Maryland House Speaker, Will Remain a Delegate

Democrats will choose a speaker nominee on Dec. 16.

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Del. C.T. Wilson outside of the House Office Building in Annapolis. He is a top contender for the Sun’s Marylander of the Year.
Adrienne Jones (D), speaker with the Maryland House of Delegates talks about the end of the 2023 legislative session in Annapolis on Tuesday., April 4, 2023.
AdrienneJones

Overview

  • Jones leaves the speakership after more than six years, ending a tenure as the first woman and first Black person to lead the Maryland House.
  • She plans to continue representing Baltimore County’s 10th District in the House of Delegates.
  • The leadership race is already underway, with early interest around Appropriations Chair Ben Barnes, Health and Government Operations Chair Joseline Peña-Melnyk, Economic Matters Chair C.T. Wilson and Delegate Jheanelle Wilkins.
  • Her record includes backing the amendment to protect abortion rights in the state constitution, boosting funding for HBCUs and pushing equity measures for cannabis and sports-gaming licenses.
  • Her decision follows a period of reduced public appearances during a difficult year personally, and she rose to the speakership in 2019 as a compromise choice after Speaker Michael E. Busch died.