ANNAPOLIS — The Maryland Senate approved Gov. Martin O’Malley’s controversial congressional redistricting plan Tuesday, despite cries from members of both parties that the map disenfranchises large portions of the state’s population. The bill passed 33 to 13, with all 12 of the Senate’s Republicans voting against it.
Those representing the majority said the map is a well-thought-out way to create strong districts for a state whose demographics have changed significantly since the districts were drawn a decade ago.
“Washington needs seasoned politicians, and this map helps maintain those seats,” said Sen. Delores Kelley, D-Baltimore County. “No matter what the demographic, Marylanders are going to benefit at this time from seniority — from stability.”
However, opponents of the plan said it was a clear attempt to gain another Democratic seat in Congress, marginalizing voters in the process.
“The plan disregards Western Marylanders,” said Sen. Christopher Shank, R-Washington County. “This was crafted to protect the four white Democrat guys,” said Sen. David Brinkley, R-Carroll and Frederick counties.
Though Democrats generally carry Prince George’s County, O’Malley’s map doesn’t do county residents any favors, said Sen. Anthony Muse, who represents the county and was the only Democrat to vote against the bill. The new districts divide black voters in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties, stripping them of their political power, he said.
“We’ve been told that this plan is a great plan for the party,” he said. “However, it’s most unfortunate that the choices placed before us, I believe, not only put the good of the party over the good of the people. In fact, I believe they pitch the party against the people.”
But others said minorities won’t be forgotten.
“We all believe here now that all of us are capable of representing people from every angle,” said Sen. Catherine Pugh, D-Baltimore City.
In response to complaints about minority representation, a coalition of Republican lawmakers and the Prince George’s-based Fannie Lou Hamer Political Action Committee proposed an alternative map that would have created a third majority-minority district. However, that bill was rejected.
A spokeswoman for the PAC said it would file a lawsuit in federal court if the plan is not changed.
