Maryland Governor Wes Moore is facing criticism for his stance on tribal politics, despite pushing for a redistricting effort that opponents claim would eliminate the state's lone Republican congressional seat.
During a July 4th speech in the Maryland State House, Moore described American history as "powerful," "painful," and "complex." He stated that "our politics has become tribal, that our political system once felt like a gift, but the politics of today feel like a grift." However, opponents argue that his actions demonstrate a clear case of hypocrisy.
Haven Shoemaker, the top state attorney for Maryland's Carroll County, pointed out that Moore is convening a special session of the Maryland General Assembly to redistrict the state's only Republican congressman out of office, a move that Shoemaker claims is a prime example of tribalism.
The special session is set to begin on August 3, with lawmakers considering a constitutional amendment on congressional redistricting. This move follows months of pressure from Moore and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries on Maryland Democrats to advance a congressional redistricting plan that would likely eliminate the state's lone Republican-held district.
Shoemaker accused Moore of being caught up in national politics while Marylanders are "fleeing in droves." He noted that Moore's record as governor has been "abysmal" and that he has only been focused on positioning himself to run for president since taking office.
Moore's comments on American nationalism during his July 4th address also drew criticism. He stated that "nationalism is not an extension of patriotism; they are not interchangeable." However, Shoemaker countered that Moore and his supporters do not think America is exceptional, a view that he finds "incredibly sad."
Maryland Freedom Caucus Chair Matt Morgan also criticized Moore's stance on patriotism, stating that Moore is "reframing the terms" to label anyone who disagrees with him as a nationalist.
The Maryland Freedom Caucus called Moore's decision to convene lawmakers for a special session for redistricting "a blatant partisan effort to rewrite the Maryland Constitution so Democrats can gerrymander away Rep. Andy Harris's seat and silence rural and conservative voices."
Morgan stated that while Maryland families are struggling with rising taxes, energy costs, and a cost-of-living crisis, Moore has decided to call a special session to focus on redistricting.
Moore's spokesperson, Ammar Mousa, responded to the criticism by asking why Maryland Republicans are "so against patriotism." However, Shoemaker countered that his own county has been targeted by state leaders for wanting to have age-appropriate material in public school libraries.
Shoemaker noted that he is not the only one calling it quits on Maryland under the current leadership, stating that many people he has spoken to are also fleeing the state due to the rising costs and lack of representation.
Fox News Digital reached out to the Maryland State Board of Education for comment, but no response was received.
