Wes Moore Secures Second Term as Maryland Governor

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore won reelection in the 2026 gubernatorial race, CBS News projects. He defeated Republican challenger Dan Cox to secure a second term as the state's 63rd governor. The result allows the Democratic incumbent to continue serving with Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller, who was first elected alongside him in 2022.

Moore made history in 2022 as Maryland's first Black governor. His victory extends his time in office to complete initiatives started during his first four years. Miller, who is the state's first immigrant and woman of color to hold the lieutenant governor role, will remain in her position for the next four years.

The governor outlined priorities for his upcoming term, focusing on improving affordability for families and addressing rising energy costs. He also plans to attract new businesses and investments while working to reduce government spending. During an October debate with Cox, Moore cited the creation of nearly 60,000 businesses and declining crime rates as key accomplishments of his first term.

A major part of Moore's agenda involves overseeing the rebuilding of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The structure collapsed in March 2024 after a cargo ship struck it, killing six construction workers. Moore has pointed to the reopening of the Port of Baltimore just 11 weeks after the collapse as a key achievement of his administration.

Moore also supported efforts to redraw Maryland's congressional districts. A proposed constitutional amendment on the November ballot would remove requirements that districts be compact and contiguous. Democratic leaders argued these changes were necessary to respond to redistricting efforts led by Republicans in other states.