Annapolis, MD, December 5, 2025
Maryland House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones has announced her immediate resignation from her leadership role, becoming the first Black woman to serve as Speaker in the state’s history. At 71, she expressed her commitment to mentoring future House leaders while continuing her representation of the 10th District. In the meantime, Speaker Pro Tem Dana Stein will fill her position until a new Speaker is chosen on December 16, with Governor Wes Moore praising Jones’s significant contributions to Maryland’s legislative achievements.
Baltimore: Maryland House Speaker Adrienne Jones Announces Resignation
ANNAPOLIS, MD — Maryland House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones has announced her decision to step down from her leadership role, effective immediately. At 71, Jones has served as a delegate since 1997 and as Speaker since 2019, becoming the first Black woman to hold the position in Maryland’s history. She will continue to represent the 10th District in Baltimore County as a delegate.
In her resignation letter, Jones expressed her desire to mentor the next generation of House leaders, emphasizing her commitment to guiding and supporting the transition to new leadership. The House Democratic Caucus has scheduled a meeting for December 16 to nominate a new Speaker. In the interim, Speaker Pro Tem Dana Stein will assume the responsibilities of the Speaker’s office.
Governor Wes Moore praised Jones’s leadership, highlighting her instrumental role in various initiatives, including improving student facilities, establishing the Department of Social and Economic Mobility, and funding Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Her tenure was marked by significant legislative achievements, such as enacting police reform, legalizing recreational marijuana, and enshrining reproductive health-care access in the state constitution. Coupled with a focus on implementing the Blueprint public education plan, Jones has been a persistent advocate for preserving Maryland’s African American history.
As Jones steps down from her leadership role, attention turns to the selection of her successor. The upcoming meeting on December 16 will be pivotal for determining the next Speaker, and with the next legislative session scheduled to commence on January 14, 2026, the transition period will be crucial for continuity in legislative leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Adrienne A. Jones?
Adrienne A. Jones is a Maryland politician who has served as a delegate since 1997 and as Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates since 2019, becoming the first Black woman to hold the position in Maryland’s history. She represents the 10th District in Baltimore County.
Why is Adrienne A. Jones stepping down as Speaker?
Adrienne A. Jones announced her decision to step down from her leadership role to focus on mentoring the next generation of House leaders. She stated, “Now is the time for me to step back and ‘raise high’ the stars of my leadership team.”
Who will succeed Adrienne A. Jones as Speaker?
The House Democratic Caucus is scheduled to meet on December 16 to nominate a new Speaker. In the interim, Speaker Pro Tem Dana Stein will assume the responsibilities of the Speaker’s office.
What are some of Adrienne A. Jones’s achievements as Speaker?
During her tenure, Jones led significant legislative initiatives, including police reform, legalizing recreational marijuana, and enshrining reproductive health-care access in the state constitution. She also focused on implementing the Blueprint public education plan and preserving Maryland’s African American history.
Will Adrienne A. Jones continue to serve as a delegate?
Yes, despite stepping down as Speaker, Adrienne A. Jones will continue to serve as a delegate representing Maryland’s 10th District in Baltimore County.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Resignation Announcement | Adrienne A. Jones announces her decision to step down as Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates, effective immediately, while continuing to serve as a delegate. |
| Interim Leadership | Speaker Pro Tem Dana Stein will assume the responsibilities of the Speaker’s office until a new Speaker is elected. |
| Governor’s Statement | Governor Wes Moore praises Jones’s leadership and mentorship, highlighting her contributions to Maryland. |
| Legislative Achievements | Jones’s tenure included significant legislative initiatives such as police reform, legalizing recreational marijuana, and enshrining reproductive health-care access in the state constitution. |
| Succession Plan | The House Democratic Caucus is scheduled to meet on December 16 to nominate a new Speaker, with the next legislative session beginning on January 14, 2026. |
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