Overview
- The governor’s commission advanced a map that would refashion the Eastern Shore–based 1st District by extending it across the Chesapeake Bay into Anne Arundel and Howard counties, tilting the seat Democratic and potentially giving the party a shot at all eight U.S. House seats.
- Gov. Wes Moore, joined by U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, urged Bill Ferguson to allow an up-or-down vote, casting a blockade as denying a democratic process.
- The House introduced legislation largely aligned with the commission’s plan and set an online public hearing for Monday as leaders move on an accelerated schedule.
- Ferguson said most Senate Democrats back his opposition, labeled the proposal “objectively unconstitutional,” and indicated the chamber will focus on affordability and other priorities.
- Republican lawmakers criticized the compressed timeline and the Monday hearing during a forecast winter storm, arguing the pace curtails public input.