Legislation to introduce special elections in Maryland to fill mid-term vacancies in the General Assembly will be reintroduced in Annapolis ahead of the 2025 legislative session. Sponsored by Sen. Cheryl Kagan and Del. Linda Foley, the bill aims to allow voters, rather than party committees, to choose replacements. The bill, which has faced resistance in the past, may see progress in 2025 after Del. Jheanelle Wilkins signaled support.
The legislation would mandate special elections for vacancies occurring in the year after off-year elections, preventing appointed legislators from serving a full term without facing elections. This move comes in response to concerns that the current appointment process does not significantly increase diversity in the legislature. The bill faces opposition related to costs and campaign finance regulations but is seen as an incremental step towards a more democratic process.
Other election-related bills are also expected to be introduced in the 2025 session, including a measure to reform the committee appointment process for vacancies. Del. Wilkins emphasized the importance of election security and the need to address threats faced by local boards of election. The push for special elections reflects a broader effort to make Maryland’s political process more transparent and accountable to voters.
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