Wes Moore elected governor in Maryland

Democratic candidate Wes Moore is projected to win Maryland’s gubernatorial race against Republican challenger Dan Cox, becoming the state’s first Black governor.

Moore, is a bestselling author, former nonprofit CEO and combat veteran who campaigned under the slogan “leave no one behind” and pledged to create greater opportunity for Maryland residents, strengthen education and boost economic growth.

Only two other Black politicians have ever been elected governor in the United States — Virginia’s Douglas Wilder in 1989, and Deval Patrick of Massachusetts in 2006.

Wes Moore wins Democratic primary race for Maryland governor

Wes Moore, the former Robin Hood Foundation CEO, won Maryland's Democratic gubernatorial primary. He defeated Maryland comptroller Peter Franchot, former Democratic National Committee chairman Tom Perez, former Education Secretary John King and former Maryland Attorney General Doug Gansler.

Moore, a Rhodes scholar and former White House fellow, and author his 2010 bestselling memoir, "The Other Wes Moore," an inspirational story of two boys with the same name and ties to the rough streets of Baltimore.

He will face Republican state Del. Dan Cox, an election denier who has taken a series of hard-line conservative positions, in the race for what will be one of the most difficult governor's offices for the GOP to hold in November's midterms.

Moore would be the state's first Black governor if elected.

Democrat Wes Moore announces run for Governor of Maryland

Author, former nonprofit executive and combat veteran Wes Moore on Monday afternoon officially joined the field of Democratic candidates vying to become the next governor of Maryland in 2022. Watch his announcement video below:

I defied the odds to become a Rhodes Scholar, Army officer & CEO.

Now, I'm announcing my run for Maryland Governor.

Because I believe no matter our start—we all deserve an equal opportunity to succeed.

I'd be humbled by your support→ https://t.co/rX4BO0kIyc#MooreforMaryland pic.twitter.com/CyVrwX2sfn

— Wes Moore (@iamwesmoore) June 7, 2021