The following article was submitted by Delegate Bob Long with his recap of the Special Session
I can’t believe Maryland’s Democratic leadership called a special session and made congressional redistricting a priority when Marylanders are struggling with the cost of living, taxes, infrastructure, public safety, and so many other issues that directly affect our families.
I heard from constituents who wanted us focused on the problems facing Maryland.Instead, Annapolis chose to focus on changing the rules for congressional redistricting.
Let’s be clear: redistricting should not be a political weapon.
Maryland has one Republican member of Congress, Congressman Andy Harris. Changing the rules for congressional redistricting could open the door to a new map that targets that remaining Republican seat.
Whether you are Republican, Democrat, or Independent, you should be concerned whenever politicians are given greater control over drawing the districts in which they and their political allies will compete.
The people should choose their representatives—not politicians choosing their voters.
Maryland’s congressional districts should be based on objective standards:
• Equal population
• Geographic compactness
• Geographic contiguity
• Natural and political boundaries
• Respect for communities of common interest
• No consideration of a voter’s political party or how they voted
Those are the principles Maryland should be protecting.And there is a better solution.
Maryland needs an independent, nonpartisan redistricting commission.
In fact, legislation introduced in Annapolis—the Fair Districts for Maryland Act—would establish an independent Legislative and Congressional Redistricting and Apportionment Commission and establish objective standards for drawing both legislative and congressional districts.
That’s the approach I support.Take the politicians out of the process.Don’t allow either party to draw congressional districts for the purpose of protecting its own political power.
Give the responsibility to an independent commission with clear rules, public transparency, and accountability.
I have also fought for election integrity and transparency throughout my time in Annapolis. I believe every legal vote should count, and Maryland voters deserve confidence that our elections are secure and fairly administered.
This November, Maryland voters will have an important decision to make about the future of congressional redistricting.
The Maryland State Board of Elections is publishing the ballot questions and explanations for the November 3, 2026 general election.
Don’t simply listen to the politicians. Read the amendment. Understand what it does. Know what is at stake.
Maryland needs balance.
Maryland needs transparency.
Maryland needs independent redistricting.
And Maryland needs leaders who will put the interests of its citizens ahead of partisan political power. The people should choose their representatives. Politicians should not choose their voters.This November, make your voice heard.
Vote against this Constitutional Amendment.