Moore Defeats Cox for Second Maryland Term

Wes Moore secured a second term as Maryland governor by defeating Republican candidate Dan Cox in the 2026 election. CBS News has projected the outcome of the race. The Democratic incumbent will serve as the state’s 63rd governor for another four years.

Moore’s first term began in 2022 when he became Maryland’s first Black governor. He will continue in office alongside Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller. Miller, who was elected in the same year, served as Maryland’s first immigrant and woman of color in that role.

The governor outlined his priorities for the next four years in recent communications. His agenda includes improving affordability for families and addressing rising energy costs. He also aims to attract new businesses and investments while strengthening the state economy. Moore has stated his goal to reduce government spending.

During an October debate with Cox, Moore cited specific administrative achievements. He noted the creation of nearly 60,000 new businesses and a decline in crime rates across the state. He also pointed to the reopening of the Port of Baltimore. The port resumed operations 11 weeks after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed in March 2024 following a collision with a cargo ship that killed six construction workers.

Voters in November also considered a proposed constitutional amendment regarding congressional districts. The measure would eliminate requirements that districts be compact and contiguous. Democratic leaders argued the change was necessary to respond to Republican-led redistricting efforts in other states. Moore has supported efforts to redraw the state’s congressional maps.

The projected victory allows Moore to continue his oversight of infrastructure and public safety projects. He will spend the next term advancing economic and public safety priorities. The administration will focus on finishing initiatives started during the previous four years.