Key Facts

• Maryland Democrats want to amend the state constitution to let them draw congressional districts more favorably for their party.
• The proposed amendment must be approved by voters before lawmakers can redraw district lines.
• Currently, Democrats hold 7 of Maryland’s 8 U.S. House seats; Republicans hold 1.
• A previous attempt to redraw districts to make a Republican seat competitive was struck down by a judge for extreme partisan gerrymandering.
• The amendment aims to limit rules about district shapes and natural boundaries only to state legislative districts, not congressional ones.
• Republicans criticize the move, saying it limits public input and splits communities unfairly.
• Governor Wes Moore supports the effort and says voters will ultimately decide the issue.
• The plan responds partly to changes in the Supreme Court’s Voting Rights Act rulings that affect redistricting nationwide.