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Ferguson Holds Line as Maryland Democrats Push Midcycle Redistricting

His control over Senate votes makes him the decisive check on Gov. Wes Moore’s push.

Overview

  • Gov. Wes Moore and prominent Democrats are urging a redraw of Maryland’s U.S. House map ahead of 2026 to try to convert the state’s lone GOP seat.
  • Senate President Bill Ferguson opposes a midcycle remap, citing high legal risk, a compressed timeline, and potential backlash for Democrats.
  • Ferguson can decide whether any redistricting bill reaches the Senate floor, while House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones has signaled willingness to proceed.
  • Democratic Sen. Clarence Lam plans to file legislation to require a new map as Moore’s advisory panel prepares recommendations.
  • Recent court rulings against partisan maps, including a prior Maryland decision striking down a Democratic plan, underscore likely litigation if lawmakers proceed.