Moore Secures Second Term in Maryland Gubernatorial Race
The Democratic incumbent defeats Dan Cox, with CBS News projecting a win that extends his tenure as the state's 63rd governor.
By Christopher Singh ·
CBS News has projected a victory for Maryland Governor Wes Moore, who will serve a second term after defeating Republican challenger Dan Cox in the 2026 gubernatorial election. The result allows the Democratic incumbent to continue leading the state as its 63rd governor.
Moore, who became Maryland’s first Black governor in 2022, will remain in office alongside Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller. Miller, elected in the same cycle, is the state’s first immigrant and woman of color to hold the lieutenant governor position.
In preparation for the next four years, Moore identified several core priorities for his second term. He plans to focus on improving affordability for families, managing rising energy costs, and attracting new business investments. His agenda also includes strengthening the state economy while reducing overall government spending.
During an October debate, Moore cited specific achievements from his first term to support his candidacy. He highlighted the creation of nearly 60,000 new businesses and noted a decline in crime rates across Maryland. He also pointed to the reopening of the Port of Baltimore just 11 weeks after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed in March 2024. Six construction workers died in that incident.
A proposed constitutional amendment appears on the November ballot that would change how Maryland’s congressional districts are drawn. The measure would eliminate requirements for districts to be compact and contiguous. Democratic leaders argue this change is a necessary response to redistricting efforts led by Republicans in other states.
