Story perspectives

Maryland Considers Redistricting Amendment Aiming at Harris Seat

8/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

Maryland lawmakers will meet on Monday, August 3, 2026, to consider a constitutional amendment for the 2028 congressional maps.
The amendment, House Bill 2100, requires a three-fifths vote in both chambers, a November 3, 2026, voter referendum, and would restrict compactness and natural-boundary rules to state legislative districts, widening congressional redistricting flexibility.
Democrats aim to eliminate the state’s only GOP-held U.S. House seat held by Rep. Andy Harris (R-Md.).

History

Historical Context

The 1965 Voting Rights Act, signed by President Lyndon Johnson, imposed federal preclearance on 13 Southern states to stop racial gerrymandering. After the 2013 Shelby County decision stripped that formula, states have sought new safeguards. Maryland’s General Assembly now proposes House Bill 2100, requiring a three-fifths legislative vote and a Nov 3 2026 referendum to redraw congressional districts, echoing the Act’s anti-bias purpose.

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Story summary

Maryland lawmakers will meet on Monday, August 3, 2026, to consider a constitutional amendment for the 2028 congressional maps.
The amendment, House Bill 2100, requires a three-fifths vote in both chambers, a November 3, 2026, voter referendum, and would restrict compactness and natural-boundary rules to state legislative districts, widening congressional redistricting flexibility.
Democrats aim to eliminate the state’s only GOP-held U.S. House seat held by Rep. Andy Harris (R-Md.).

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