BREAKING: MD House Speaker Adrienne Jones Stepping Down; Gov. Moore Confirms

MARYLAND – Speaker Adrienne A. Jones is stepping down as Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates.

Governor Wes Moore and multiple lawmakers confirmed on Thursday that Speaker Jones submitted her resignation to her colleagues. She has served as a delegate since 1997, before becoming Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates in 2019. Jones is the first African-American and first woman to serve in that position in Maryland.

Governor Moore reflected on Speaker Jones’ announcement, saying in part, “Adrienne Jones was a friend and mentor long before she ever earned the title “Speaker.” Her leadership and mentorship have been instrumental to me and so many others who serve the people of Maryland. She leads by example, putting service above self across five decades, and that will not change as she steps down from leadership while still serving District 10.”

He commended Jones work around helping Maryland students, citing her involvement in the creation of the Department of Social and Economic Mobility. 

“Throughout her career, she never flinched from stepping into the gap. That work continues, and our state is better off because of it. Marylanders who will never meet her and may not even know her name will have their lives made better by her work,” Governor Moore continued. 

House Republicans also issued a statement reacting to Speaker Jones’ resignation.

“I commend Speaker Jones for making what I am sure was a difficult personal decision,” said House Minority Leader Jason Buckel. “She has my respect and appreciation for her public service and her historic role as Speaker. I look forward to continuing to work with her as a colleague this session. She was tough, but honest and gracious, and undoubtedly a good person who has left a profound legacy in Maryland.”

“While we certainly disagreed on many policies, I know that Speaker Jones is a good person and a dedicated public servant”, said House Minority Whip Jesse Pippy. “I respect her long career and know she will continue to serve her constituents faithfully. I wish her the very best in this new chapter.”

The resignation statement from Speaker Jones has not been obtained at this time.

WMDT will continue to report on this story as updates are made available.