Should states redraw congressional maps between once-a-decade censuses?
Maryland lawmakers will meet in special session August 3 to 5 to consider a constitutional amendment changing the standards for drawing the state's congressional districts, undoing the effect of a 2022 court ruling, as states led by both parties have redrawn maps between censuses in 2025 and 2026. The amendment would not itself redraw the map, and any new map would likely not apply before 2028. If three fifths of both chambers approve, the measure goes to voters in a November 2026 referendum. Should states redraw between censuses, and who should control the process? Where do you stand?
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The case for
Supporters argue elected legislatures are directly accountable to voters and that map-drawing standards should be able to respond to court rulings, population shifts, and changes other states are making. With states led by both parties having redrawn maps mid-decade in 2025 and 2026, they say a state that cannot adjust its own standards leaves its voters at a structural disadvantage.
Source: Maryland Governor's Office (amendment proponent; argues states must be able to act) →The case against
Opponents argue redrawing outside the normal decennial cycle entrenches whoever holds power, cuts competition, and erodes trust in elections. They favor independent commissions and stable maps, warning that a state versus state exchange of redraws leaves voters in districts drawn for partisan advantage rather than around real communities.
Source: Brennan Center for Justice (democracy-reform advocacy group; opposes mid-decade redistricting) →My Democracy doesn’t take a side — you choose your position below, and your message carries it. Sources represent one organization on each side; they don’t reflect My Democracy’s position.
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Both sides are laid out above. Your message will carry your position — My Democracy doesn’t take a side.