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UMBC Poll Finds Redistricting Low Priority, Broad Backing for Independent Maps in Maryland

A state commission convened by Gov. Wes Moore reviews testimony under a Feb. 24, 2026 deadline for any mid-cycle changes.

Overview

  • Only 27% of Maryland adults call redistricting a high priority, while health care and K-12 education draw top priority ratings of 77% and 75%, respectively.
  • Concern about gerrymandering is widespread, with 81% viewing it as a major problem and 63% preferring an independent commission to draw districts rather than elected officials.
  • Views of the current maps are mixed: 41% say the lines are unfair, 28% say they are fair, and 29% are unsure; among those calling them unfair, 33% say they favor Democrats and 8% say they favor Republicans.
  • Gov. Wes Moore’s panel has held four meetings and is reviewing testimony before recommending any mid-cycle redistricting, which must be completed before the Feb. 24, 2026 candidate filing deadline.
  • The dual-frame survey of 801 adults, including 769 registered voters, was conducted Dec. 2–6 with a ±3.5 percentage point margin of error, and UMBC will release additional findings on Dec. 17 and Dec. 22.