Rising Political Figures: A Reflection
Back in 2022, I pointed out two individuals, Wes Moore and Kari Lake, who seemed poised to influence America’s political landscape.
Well, I was partially correct.
Kari Lake ran as the Republican candidate for Arizona’s governorship that year. Once a prominent television journalist, she was known for her strong communication skills. Despite her potential, her campaign strayed from basic political principles. Generally, campaigns should focus on building coalitions rather than alienating groups.
By aligning closely with Donald Trump, she effectively pushed away John McCain’s supporters—definitely not a winning strategy for Republicans in Arizona.
Lake’s attempt to secure a Senate seat in 2024 also fell short. This time, she’d be facing Senator Reuben Gallego (D-Ariz.) for an open position.
Now, she finds herself involved in reshaping the Voice of America.
So, I might have misjudged Lake. But I think there’s more promise in Wes Moore.
In 2022, Moore succeeded in the competitive Democratic primary and took over Maryland’s governorship from Republican Larry Hogan. He won decisively against Trump’s 2020 campaign manager, Dan Cox.
To win the presidency, a candidate typically needs three key components. First, timing is crucial. In 2016, Trump didn’t hold office but capitalized on his business image. At that time, Americans’ trust in government was remarkably low.
Then in 2020, Joe Biden was seen as a seasoned insider, a stable option during the pandemic. His extensive experience was a definite plus, showcasing both timing and background.
Currently, voters don’t seem eager for candidates steeped in ineffective governance. While some are eyeing 2028 for a presidential run, I doubt their chances. I think people crave someone capable of solving real issues. And Moore is ideally positioned to deliver results.
Moore holds the right office at just the right moment. He frames himself as a problem solver.
After the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in 2024, Moore acted swiftly, mobilizing resources to clear debris blocking Baltimore’s vital port. Today, that bridge has been reconstructed.
In another crisis, stemming from significant federal layoffs under Trump, Moore utilized state resources to assist displaced workers, especially aiming to fill teaching positions. He has also committed to expanding apprenticeship opportunities in Maryland.
The second crucial quality for a winning candidate is the ability to share compelling personal narratives. Moore excels in this area. His autobiography, The Other Wes Moore, juxtaposes his life with another man sharing his name who is serving a life sentence.
Moore’s journey started with the loss of his father in 1982 due to inadequate medical care. Raised by his mother and grandparents, he struggled with the law at a young age.
At 17, his mother enlisted him in the army, a decision that significantly redirected his life. He later served in Afghanistan, where he received a Bronze Star for his service.
Throughout his gubernatorial campaign in 2022, Moore emphasized the lessons he absorbed during military life, particularly the principle of not leaving anyone behind. As governor, he has committed to ensuring that every individual receives support, especially military veterans.
This contrasts with his message to Trump’s base, encapsulated in “You’re yourself.” With the 2028 election likely presenting another departure from Trumpism, voters might seek a significant change.
Moore’s background carries a patriotic essence that resonates deeply. As the third African American governor elected in the U.S., he shared with Lincoln University’s alumni the tale of how his great-grandfather faced persecution from the Ku Klux Klan in South Carolina yet returned to Jamaica, displaying a love for America that’s hard to overlook.
Moore’s dreams for a liberal agenda, coupled with a genuine commitment to the country, echo sentiments from Robert Kennedy’s presidential campaign in 1968. Recent discussions highlight how both Kennedy and Moore appeal to voters through a deep dedication to equality and American values.
Charisma is the third pillar necessary for a candidate’s success. It’s a trait seen in figures like Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and, I believe, in Moore as well.
Actor George Clooney notes that Moore stands out among his peers, implying he may possess qualities desirable for presidential aspirations, similar to figures like Kentucky’s Andy Beshear and Michigan’s Gretchen Whitmer.
Not every emerging leader may embody these three essential traits, but those who do have a greater likelihood of winning.
As of now, Moore maintains he has no interest in running for president. However, such declarations can often be misleading. For instance, Barack Obama, in 2006, suggested he had no intention to run but changed his stance the following year.
Fast forward to today, and Moore is focusing on his reelection as governor—a significant democratic event in Maryland. Voters often prefer leaders who concentrate on serving them rather than eyeing higher offices. Moore seems to understand this well.
But the presidency is a rare opportunity. Both Obama and Trump recognized that during their respective elections. Many ambitious politicians may never reach that level. The cycle in 2028 could very well be Moore’s moment, and I think he should seriously consider it.
