Wes Moore on 2028, His Party's Problems and His Favorite Crab Cake

The Maryland governor discussed Trump, the country's divisions and his workout routine.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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In an interview, Maryland Governor Wes Moore, a potential 2028 presidential candidate, discussed the Democratic Party's challenges, his views on former President Trump's impact, and his favorite places to eat crab cakes in Baltimore.

Why it matters

As a rising star in the Democratic Party, Moore's perspectives on the party's path forward and his potential national ambitions are closely watched. His comments on the party's need to deliver results and move beyond just opposing Trump provide insight into the strategic thinking of a prominent Democratic governor.

The details

Moore, the first Black governor of Maryland, is up for re-election this year in his solidly blue state. A U.S. Army veteran, he is seen as a potential presidential candidate in 2028 and has already visited some early primary states. In the interview, Moore discussed the Democratic Party's need to focus on "work, wages and wealth" rather than just opposing Trump, and highlighted the potential candidacy of former Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo as a future Democratic nominee.

  • Moore was interviewed in December 2025 at a meeting of the Democratic Governors Association.
  • CBS News plans to air a televised town hall with Moore on February 15, 2026.
  • President Trump is blocking Moore from a bipartisan dinner for governors at the White House later this month.

The players

Wes Moore

The Democratic governor of Maryland who is seen as a potential 2028 presidential candidate.

Gina Raimondo

The former Democratic governor of Rhode Island who Moore says he would like to see run for president in 2028.

Donald Trump

The former Republican president whose impact on American politics and government Moore discussed in the interview.

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What they’re saying

“Delivering actual results instead of just talking about them.”

— Wes Moore, Governor of Maryland (New York Times)

“Not just railing against Donald Trump, but showing what an alternative to Donald Trump can look like.”

— Wes Moore, Governor of Maryland (New York Times)

“For a lot of people, they questioned whether or not government could work for them. Donald Trump has changed it, where people now question whether or not government even cares to work for them.”

— Wes Moore, Governor of Maryland (New York Times)

What’s next

CBS News plans to air a televised town hall with Moore on February 15, 2026, providing a national platform for the Maryland governor to further discuss his vision for the Democratic Party.

The takeaway

As a rising star in the Democratic Party, Wes Moore's comments highlight the party's need to move beyond simply opposing Trump and instead focus on delivering tangible results and a positive alternative vision for the country. His potential 2028 presidential ambitions and support for candidates like Gina Raimondo suggest a desire for the party to elevate experienced governors who can demonstrate an ability to govern effectively.