Marylanders cast ballots Tuesday to determine who will occupy the governor's mansion for the next four years, with incumbent Gov. Wes Moore (D) asking voters for a second term. Polls close at 8 p.m. EST.
Moore, a former nonprofit executive and U.S. Army veteran, captured the governorship in 2022 without prior elected experience. His victory made him the state's first Black governor and immediately fueled speculation about his national ambitions, including a possible spot on the 2028 Democratic presidential ticket. But before any of that, he must first clear Tuesday's hurdle.
Despite Maryland's strong Democratic tilt, the state has recently elected a Republican governor: Larry Hogan served two terms before Moore. Republicans are hoping to replicate that success, though the national environment and Maryland's blue hue present steep odds. Their nominee is Dan Cox, a former state delegate who also carried the GOP banner in 2022, setting up a rematch of that contest.
Cox, a staunch conservative, has maintained a loyal following among the party's base. He has focused his campaign on criticizing Moore's record on crime, education, and the economy, though he faces an uphill battle in a state where Democrats outnumber Republicans by a wide margin. Moore, meanwhile, has touted his administration's achievements, including investments in infrastructure, education, and public safety, while warning that a Cox victory would roll back progress.
The race has drawn national attention as a bellwether for Democratic enthusiasm and a test of Moore's political strength. A strong showing could bolster his national profile, while a closer-than-expected margin might raise questions about his broader appeal. For Republicans, a win in Maryland would be a major upset and a symbolic victory in a deeply blue state.
Down-ballot races are also in play, including key House contests. For more on those, see our coverage of Maryland's House elections. Nationally, other governor's races are drawing attention, such as the South Carolina governor race and the Oregon governor race.
Voters across the state are also weighing in on local issues and ballot measures, but the governor's contest remains the headline. With polls closing at 8 p.m. EST, results are expected to trickle in throughout the evening. Check back for live updates as the numbers come in.
