In a landmark event for the Maryland House of Delegates, Joseline Peña-Melnyk has been unanimously elected as the new Speaker, making history as the first Afro-Latina and immigrant to hold this position. The election took place during a special session convened by Governor Wes Moore, which also saw the legislature addressing several gubernatorial vetoes. Peña-Melnyk, a former member of the College Park City Council, is recognized for her commitment to serving the community and is expected to bring significant change to the house leadership. The session limited its agenda, opting not to include redistricting issues, focusing instead on the transition in leadership.