Ferguson Says Maryland Redistricting Window Has Closed

ANNAPOLIS, Md. — The push to redraw congressional district lines in Maryland before the 2026 elections appears to conclude after Maryland Senate President Bill Ferguson asserted Friday the “window of opportunity has closed,” effectively halting a mid-decade redistricting effort that had gained momentum in the House and drew national attention.

A new congressional map advanced earlier this month in the Maryland House of Delegates, stopping short of adoption in the Senate. Ferguson made clear he would not bring the measure forward without sufficient votes and adequate time to navigate the legal hurdles that would almost certainly follow. He cited approaching filing deadlines and the likelihood of court challenges as key obstacles, saying the calendar simply does not allow for a smooth implementation before the next election cycle.

Gov. Wes Moore had prioritized the issue this session, framing it as both a strategic and fairness matter. The debate even drew U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries to Annapolis to encourage Senate action, underscoring the national stakes as both parties look toward control of Congress.

Ferguson, however, has consistently warned that reopening congressional lines midcycle could backfire if courts impose a less favorable map. Maryland’s current congressional map has not been reviewed by state courts in its present form, adding another layer of uncertainty to any effort to redraw it now.

With no Senate vote scheduled and election deadlines approaching, lawmakers are expected to shift their focus to other priorities. Supporters of redistricting may revisit the issue in a future session, but for 2026, the existing map appears set to remain in place.