Maryland Governor Wes Moore (D) is working to elevate his national presence while downplaying notions that he might pursue the presidency in the next election cycle.
Moore, whose name surfaced early in speculations about a potential partnership with former Vice President Kamala Harris on the 2024 Democratic ticket, affirmed on ABC’s “The View” last week that he “isn’t running” for the White House in 2028.
Nonetheless, his recent television appearance and statewide engagements have brought attention to this rising Democratic figure, who was re-elected as governor in 2026.
“He hasn’t done much to quell speculation about 2028… His actions contrast with his stated intentions,” noted Democratic strategist Ren Foxwell from Maryland.
“On one hand, he said he aims for 2028. On the other, he appears on a must-watch national talk show for those eyeing the Democratic nomination while also visiting key presidential primary battlegrounds,” Foxwell added.
“I’m not running,” Moore reiterated during an exchange with Joy Behar, one of the show’s co-hosts.
“What if we really, really, really need you?” Behar joked, eliciting laughter from the audience.
“I’m excited about the work in Maryland right now,” Moore replied, highlighting some achievements within his state.
Shortly afterward, he made an appearance in Pennsylvania, where he gave an inaugural address at Lincoln University, a historically Black institution.
His speech focused on “real patriotism” amid challenging times, sharing personal anecdotes about his grandfather.
This week, he again emphasized “the true attitude of patriotism” in a keynote address at the Brennan Center Awards in New York City.
Nest week, he is set to headline the South Carolina Democratic Blue Palmetto dinner, a past venue for notable figures like Harris, Cory Booker, and Raphael Warnock.
“Governor Moore represents one of the most dynamic new faces in the party,” remarked Democratic strategist John Linesh.
“He’s appearing on prominent TV shows and targeting early primary states. At this point, some level of denial is typical,” he continued.
Moore, who entered politics with his gubernatorial victory in 2022, faced high-profile challenges, including navigating the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. He has since become a notable representative of former President Biden.
At 46, he is Maryland’s first Black governor and just the third Black governor in any state.
Actor George Clooney has called Moore a “proper leader” and a potential candidate for 2028, citing his military background and work with the Robin Hood Foundation, which tackles poverty. Former NBA star Charles Barkley has also voiced support for Moore as a candidate.
Former President Obama is said to have considered a ticket featuring Moore and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D) for 2024, according to anonymous sources.
Despite having just 1% in a recent polling survey for the 2028 race, Moore lags behind other prominent Democratic governors such as Whitmer, J.B. Pritzker of Illinois, and Andy Beshear of Kentucky.
Colmu O’Martin, the former executive director of the Democratic Governors’ Association, argued that Moore’s recent activities don’t clearly indicate a direct aim for the presidency compared to others.
For instance, Beshear has been openly stating his aspirations.
“Many have expressed interest in seeing [Moore] step up, but his actions seem less campaign-focused and more about his current work,” O’Martin said.
While Moore denies presidential aspirations, he emphasizes his commitment to Maryland in the meantime.
“I don’t believe anyone focused on 2028 or 2025 is serious about the present,” Moore told CNN shortly after his appearance on “The View.”
As Moore gears up for reelection next year, political observers note that it’s prudent for him to keep his current focus, especially in Maryland until 2026.
He is expected to run alongside Lt. Col. Arna Miller (D) in 2026. Moore previously won his initial term easily against Republican challengers in the solidly blue state and is favored for reelection without significant competition.
Reports indicate that Ed Hale Sr., a retired Baltimore businessman, plans to challenge Moore from the Democratic side, while Republican candidate John Millick is also in the race. Others might join the contest, including former Governor Larry Hogan (R), who previously sought a Senate seat.
Moore’s job approval rating had been above 50% earlier this year but has seen a slight decline recently.
“History shows that potential presidential candidates have faltered if their home state performance underwhelms,” Foxwell stated.
If Moore has ambitions for higher office, experts stress the importance of a solid reelection campaign to establish his viability as a candidate.
“To pave a presidential path for 2028, a strong reelection campaign is essential,” they noted.
Moreover, political figures have occasionally retracted initial denials of interest only to later shift course. For example, Obama initially claimed he wouldn’t run for president in 2006, but ultimately pursued the White House in 2008.
Even if Moore doesn’t seek the presidency in 2028, enhancing his national profile could benefit the Democratic Party amid calls for new leadership following recent electoral setbacks.
“Democrats are still searching for effective leadership,” noted one observer. “Every step Moore takes increases his visibility among influential Democratic circles.”
