Maryland governor creates commission to weigh redistricting ahead of 2026 midterms

Maryland Democratic Gov. Wes Moore on Tuesday launched a redistricting commission to consider whether to redraw the state's congressional lines ahead of next year's midterms, as other states redo their districts.

The launch comes the same day that California voters are casting their ballots on whether the Golden State should participate in the redistricting movement. The resolution would redraw House districts to secure a greater Democratic advantage as retaliation for similar Republican efforts in states like Texas.

The commission will be led by Maryland Democratic Sen. Angela Alsobrooks and will hold public hearings, solicit feedback and make recommendations to the governor and Maryland General Assembly on redistricting.

“My commitment has been clear from day one—we will explore every avenue possible to make sure Maryland has fair and representative maps,” Moore said in a news release. “This commission will ensure the people are heard. 

"I thank those who have raised their hands to lead this process, and I am confident in their ability to gather the views and perspectives of a broad range of voices throughout the state," he added.

The commission will begin its operations later this month and will consist of five bipartisan members. 

Maryland's House delegation consists of seven Democrats and one Republican, but roughly 23.8 percent of Maryland’s 4.3 million registered voters are Republicans, according to the state election board’s October activity report.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.