Politics
Maryland court blocks Democratic redistricting ballot measure
A state judge ruled that a proposed constitutional amendment failed to meet statutory deadlines for the November ballot.
The short version
- A Maryland circuit court judge blocked a Democratic initiative to place a congressional redistricting constitutional amendment on the November ballot.
- The proposed measure sought to allow lawmakers to redraw district maps before 2028 and eliminate requirements for districts to be compact and respect natural boundaries.
- The judge ruled that state officials missed a July 1 statutory deadline for certifying ballot measure summaries.
Key facts
- County Circuit Court Judge Robert Thompson blocked a Democratic proposal from appearing on Maryland's November ballot.[Fox News]
- The ruling cited a violation of state deadlines that required the secretary of state to certify ballot summaries by July 1.[Fox News]
- The amendment aimed to let state lawmakers redraw district maps for the 2028 elections and strip constitutional requirements for districts to be compact and adhere to natural boundaries.[Fox News]
- Democrats hold seven of Maryland's eight congressional seats, while Republican Rep. Andy Harris holds the remaining seat.[Fox News]
- The Maryland Senate Republican Caucus praised the court's decision, emphasizing the need for state compliance with election laws.[Fox News]
What remains uncertain
- It is not yet clear whether Maryland Democrats will appeal the circuit court ruling before the general election.[Fox News]
Sources
- Democrats' redistricting push in blue state hits legal snagFox News - Politics