House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries visited Annapolis, meeting with Maryland Senate President Bill Ferguson and Governor Wes Moore as part of a pressure campaign to pass new congressional districts. The move is aimed at countering Republican gerrymandering efforts in other states.
Jeffries met privately with Ferguson for 45 minutes, discussing the need to respond to Trump administration harms and the legal merits of redistricting. While both men seemed open to speaking again, they did not appear to change each other’s minds on the issue.
Moore, who pushed for mid-cycle redistricting as part of his effort to increase Democratic influence in Maryland, said he didn’t request a meeting with Jeffries but was happy to discuss their shared belief in fighting for democracy. He urged Ferguson to allow his chamber to exercise its democratic rights.
House Democrats have already approved a new map of congressional districts that gives them a chance to oust the state’s sole Republican congressman, Andy Harris. Supporters argue that partisan maps are necessary to counter Republican efforts and preserve Democratic chances at winning a majority in the House.
However, Ferguson has cast doubts on the plan, citing legal risks and concerns about “mutually assured destruction.” Maryland Republicans oppose redistricting, which could strip them of their only seat in the House. Some, like Del. Jason Buckel, believe it’s time to accept that the issue is dead due to upcoming election deadlines.
Jeffries indicated he had spoken with some members of the Senate but did not provide an exact count. U.S. Rep Jamie Raskin has also appealed for a vote on new maps, arguing that the state Senate should exercise its democratic rights.
Source: https://www.thebanner.com/politics-power/state-government/hakeem-jeffries-maryland-redistricting-moore-C4TOPLSGW5BGZLXVGRBPWXC3AU