1. United States
2. Md.
3. Letter

Allow Senate Vote on Maryland Redistricting Bill** I am writing to urge you to allow the Maryland redistricting bill to proceed to a vote in the State Senate. This legislation passed the House overwhelmingly, demonstrating strong support from elected representatives across the state. Blocking a Senate vote on this critical issue denies both my fellow senators and Maryland citizens the democratic process we deserve. While I understand concerns about reopening congressional maps, inaction carries consequences that are far from neutral. Republican-led states are actively redrawing congressional maps to consolidate power ahead of the 2026 elections. Refusing to act while national representation is being reshaped sends a message that process matters more than people. This approach does not protect public trust. It erodes it by telling voters their voices are expendable. The stakes are concrete and immediate. In October alone, 10,000 Maryland workers lost their jobs. November brought our state's highest unemployment rate since 2021. Federal decisions on jobs, health care, infrastructure, disaster relief, and civil rights do not pause while we debate process. Maryland needs strong representation in Congress to fight for our interests, and we cannot afford to sit on the sidelines while other states reshape the balance of power. I recognize that redistricting involves legal and political risks. But the risk of doing nothing while our national representation weakens is greater. Marylanders understand what is at stake and believe action is worth taking. We need leaders willing to make difficult choices to defend our democratic values, even when outcomes are uncertain. The House has spoken. Now the Senate must have its chance. I urge you to allow this bill to come to a vote and let the democratic process move forward. Maryland cannot afford to be made irrelevant while critical decisions about our future happen without us.