Wes Moore Secures Second Term as Maryland Governor, CBS News Projects

CBS News projects that Maryland Governor Wes Moore has defeated Republican challenger Dan Cox to win a second term. The result keeps the Democratic incumbent in office as the state’s 63rd governor. He will continue to serve alongside Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller.

Moore first won the office in 2022, becoming the state’s first Black governor. His predecessor served the previous four years. The upcoming term will extend his leadership through another four years. Miller, who was elected with him in 2022, remains the state’s first woman of color and immigrant to hold the lieutenant governor position.

During an October debate, Moore cited the creation of nearly 60,000 businesses as a key accomplishment. He also pointed to declining crime rates across the state. His administration has prioritized improving affordability and addressing rising energy costs. He plans to attract new businesses and reduce government spending in the coming years.

A central part of Moore’s agenda involves the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The structure collapsed in March 2024 after a cargo ship struck it. Six construction workers died in the incident. Moore’s team highlighted the reopening of the Port of Baltimore just 11 weeks after the collapse as a major achievement.

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

The projected victory allows Moore to continue overseeing the bridge rebuilding process. It also permits him to advance his economic and public safety priorities. The election concludes his first full term and sets the stage for his second.