Maryland Republicans Form Freedom Caucus

Republican members of the Maryland House of Delegates officially launched the Maryland Freedom Caucus, inspired by a similar group in Congress, with the aim of addressing fiscal issues and conservative policies. Although initially comprising only seven members in a chamber with a Democratic majority, the caucus intends to introduce a series of poll-tested bills on issues such as immigration and budgetary responsibility. Chairman Matt Morgan emphasized that the caucus seeks to represent a 'Maryland agenda' rather than a strictly partisan one. U.S. Rep. Andy Harris, who chairs the national Freedom Caucus, has pledged support and highlighted the need for fiscal responsibility to counteract what he described as government overreach. Former Governor Bob Ehrlich also spoke at the launch, underscoring the importance of the group in challenging the current Democratic leadership in Annapolis. The Maryland Freedom Caucus marks the state's entry as the 13th member of the State Freedom Caucus Network, aiming to gain official recognition within the General Assembly soon.