Maryland Governor Moore Meets with Trump at White House

Tensions remain high between the Democratic governor and Republican president despite 'productive' talks

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Maryland Governor Wes Moore attended a National Governors Association meeting at the White House on Friday, despite earlier indications that he and Colorado Governor Jared Polis would not be invited. While Moore described the meeting as 'productive', the circumstances leading up to it suggest an ongoing tense relationship between the Democratic governor and Republican President Donald Trump.

Why it matters

The meeting highlights the complex and layered relationship between Governor Moore and President Trump, who have clashed on various political issues. As a potential 2028 presidential candidate, Moore must balance representing Maryland's interests while avoiding the appearance of 'cowtowing' to the unpopular president in his home state.

The details

Moore initially announced he would not participate in 'political stunts' at the White House, after the National Governors Association withdrew from facilitating the meeting due to uncertainty over whether Moore and Polis would be allowed to attend. Trump had previously blasted the two governors on social media as 'not worthy of being there'. However, Moore ultimately decided to attend the breakfast meeting, which he said offered a chance to discuss transportation issues affecting Maryland, including the American Legion Bridge and the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

  • On Friday, February 20, 2026, Governor Moore attended the National Governors Association meeting at the White House.
  • Earlier, the National Governors Association had withdrawn from facilitating the meeting due to uncertainty over whether Moore and Polis would be invited.

The players

Wes Moore

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

Donald Trump

The Republican president, who has taken a confrontational approach toward state leaders he does not like, including threatening to withhold federal funding or send in troops.

Jared Polis

The Democratic governor of Colorado, who was also initially not invited to the White House meeting.

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What they’re saying

“We've got [funding] situations involving Western Maryland and the Key Bridge where you kind of have to play nice. At the same time, the evidence shows that when you play nice, playing nice doesn't necessarily do much. The last thing you want is to have it look like you're cowtowing.”

— Todd Eberley, Political science professor at St. Mary's College of Maryland (baltimoresun.com)

“Moore and Polis were invited when all of the Democrats were invited to the working breakfast.”

— White House official (baltimoresun.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.