Gov. Wes Moore Offers Prayers for Trump, Feels 'Bad' for Him

Maryland governor discusses his complicated relationship with the former president and the state of US politics.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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In an interview with the Associated Press, Maryland Governor Wes Moore discussed his strained relationship with former President Donald Trump, who has frequently criticized Moore. Moore said he has 'no desire to have beef' with the president, but feels 'bad' for him due to Trump's 'really, really hard existence.' Moore also commented on Trump's history with the Black community and the polarized state of US politics.

Why it matters

The relationship between Governor Moore and former President Trump highlights the ongoing political tensions in the country. As a rising Democratic star, Moore's perspective on Trump and the state of US politics provides insight into the challenges facing the nation.

The details

Governor Moore met with Democratic House leader Hakeem Jeffries to discuss redistricting in Maryland, part of a nationwide battle over congressional maps. Moore said he is simply asking for a vote on the issue, regardless of the outcome. He also criticized Trump's role in politicizing the redistricting process. Additionally, Moore commented on Trump's criticism of him over a sewage spill in the Potomac River, which Moore said had nothing to do with Maryland since the pipe was part of a federally regulated utility.

  • The interview with Governor Moore took place on Wednesday, February 19, 2026.

The players

Wes Moore

The governor of Maryland and a rising star in the Democratic Party, who is frequently floated as a potential presidential candidate.

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States, who has frequently criticized Governor Moore and has a complicated history with the Black community.

Hakeem Jeffries

The Democratic House leader, with whom Governor Moore met to discuss redistricting in Maryland.

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What they’re saying

“I pray for him and I just feel bad for him because that has just got to be a really, really hard existence.”

— Wes Moore, Governor of Maryland (wbal.com)

“This would not even be an issue had Donald Trump not brought this up and introduced this into the ecosystem.”

— Wes Moore, Governor of Maryland (wbal.com)

What’s next

Governor Moore is expected to continue his efforts to redraw Maryland's congressional map, which could have implications for the balance of power in Congress.

The takeaway

The relationship between Governor Moore and former President Trump highlights the deep political divisions in the country, as well as the important role that state-level leaders can play in shaping the national political landscape.