Marylanders Divided on State of the State After Moore's Address

Residents express concerns over taxes, cost of living, and affordability in the state

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Marylanders had mixed reactions after Governor Wes Moore delivered his State of the State address, with some residents calling the state "no good" and others saying it's "pretty good." Common themes included concerns over rising taxes, fees, and the high cost of living, with many citing challenges around affordability of housing, food, and other necessities.

Why it matters

Governor Moore's State of the State address provides an important update on the key issues facing Maryland, and the public's response highlights the diverse perspectives and ongoing challenges around the state's economic climate and cost of living.

The details

Residents across Baltimore expressed a range of views, with some describing the state as "terrible" due to rising taxes, while others said things are "pretty good" and praised the governor's performance. Affordability emerged as a major concern, with one woman noting that "financially, everything is high" and "there's nowhere to live" even for those making a good income. Others pointed to the broader economic climate, saying the issues facing Maryland are "happening everywhere in the country right now."

  • Governor Moore delivered his State of the State address on February 11, 2026.
  • This was Moore's fourth State of the State address as he nears the end of his first term as governor.

The players

Governor Wes Moore

The current governor of Maryland, who delivered the State of the State address.

Marylanders

Residents of the state of Maryland who shared their perspectives on the state's current conditions.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“No good!”

— Unnamed resident (WBFF)

“Fifty-fifty.”

— Unnamed resident (WBFF)

“We have increased estate taxes now.”

— Unnamed resident (WBFF)

“I feel like we're in trouble.”

— Unnamed resident (WBFF)

“Because taxes have gone up and gone up and gone up.”

— Unnamed resident (WBFF)

The takeaway

Governor Moore's State of the State address has sparked a range of reactions from Marylanders, highlighting the ongoing challenges around the state's economic climate and cost of living. While some residents expressed optimism, many voiced concerns over rising taxes, fees, and the affordability of housing, food, and other necessities, underscoring the need for continued efforts to address these pressing issues facing the state.