Public testimony taken before lawmakers voted on Congressional map.
Annapolis, Md (NS) – A special session of the Maryland General assembly took place on Monday to discuss re-drawing the state’s Congressional districts.
Two maps were considered. The Legislative Redistricting Advisory Commission’s map is largely supported by Democrats and the Maryland Citizens Redistricting Commission’s map is supported by Governor Larry Hogan and other Republicans.
Before voting in favor of the Legislative Redistricting Advisory Commission’s map and voting down the Maryland Citizens Redistricting Commission’s map, the Maryland General Assembly listened to over an hour of public input.
Democrat lawyer Samuel Morse voiced his support for Governor Hogan’s Maryland Citizens Redistricting Commission’s map.
“By passing the maps drafted by the Legislative Redistricting Advisory Committee, you’ll make clear that you are committed to democratic ideals so long as they further your political goals. As a proud Democrat, I implore you not to be so short sighted,” said Morse.
Sierra Sterns from the Eastern Shore commutes to Annapolis. She supports the Legislative Redistricting Advisory Commission’s map — but wants an edit.
“I would like to recommend that while the proposed map does include suburbs of Annapolis… I think it’s a very natural connection to the eastern shore counties and Annapolis to be included as well,” said Sterns.
Physician and former District 3 representative Dr. Gary Applebaum showed his support for the Maryland Citizens Redistricting Map.
“I strongly urge the committee to support the map in House Bill 2 that will lead to Congresswomen and men who will truly be able to do the people’s work for their constituents,” Applebaum said.
The Legislative Redistricting Advisory Commission’s map will now go before the House of Delegates.