Posted on 02/11/26
| News Source: FOX45
Annapolis, MD - Feb. 11, 2026 - Governor Wes Moore delivered his 2026 State of the State address Wednesday, outlining an agenda focused on shielding Marylanders from federal policy impacts, lowering costs, growing the economy, and investing in education — all under a three-part theme: “Protect, deliver, and lead.”
Moore acknowledged disagreements in Annapolis, including an ongoing debate over redistricting, but urged lawmakers to “not let the democratic process die in the Free State,” calling debate and compromise hallmarks of Maryland governance.
Much of the speech contrasted Maryland’s direction with what Moore described as harmful federal actions. He cited federal job cuts affecting tens of thousands of Marylanders and warned that changes in Washington could jeopardize health care and food assistance for hundreds of thousands more residents.
In response, Moore highlighted state investments to fill gaps and stabilize families, including:
With rising costs top of mind, Moore proposed an additional $100 million in energy rebates to build on last year’s $200 million relief effort. He also called for energy reforms, expanded solar and wind development, and new requirements for data centers to cover their own power costs and hire locally.
On the economy, Moore pointed to nearly 100,000 jobs created and more than 35,000 new businesses opened since he took office. He highlighted more than $10 billion in private investment, including major commitments from AstraZeneca and other technology and biotech companies.
The governor also emphasized Maryland’s focus on emerging industries like artificial intelligence, announcing a $4 million investment to train workers for AI-related jobs and expanded use of AI to streamline state services.
Public safety was another major theme. Moore said homicides are down nearly 50% statewide since he took office, crediting partnerships between state and local leaders and initiatives targeting poverty and community investment.
In education, Moore proposed a historic $10 billion investment in public schools and touted improvements in literacy, graduation rates, and reduced teacher vacancies. He also renewed calls to expand housing near transit through the proposed Maryland Transit and Housing Opportunity Act.
The governor addressed immigration policy, announcing the launch of “Citizenship Maryland,” a public-private partnership aimed at helping eligible residents obtain citizenship. He also voiced support for legislation to protect immigrants’ constitutional rights while continuing cooperation with federal authorities on violent crime.
Throughout the speech, Moore framed the moment as pivotal for the state, saying Maryland must stand together in the face of economic pressures and political division.
“If we protect, deliver, and lead,” Moore said, “we will build the kind of future that those who came before us fought for — and those who come after us deserve.”