Baltimore Mayor Delivers 2026 State of the City Address

Mayor Scott highlights housing, violence prevention, and community impact in annual address.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 3:13am

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Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott delivered his sixth State of the City address on Tuesday night, focusing on key issues facing the city including vacant housing, the cost of living, and the city's trauma-informed approach to reducing gun violence. The mayor announced new programs and initiatives aimed at supporting longtime residents and making Baltimore safer and healthier for all.

Why it matters

The State of the City address is an important annual event that allows the mayor to outline his vision and priorities for the city. As Baltimore continues to grapple with challenges like affordable housing and public safety, the mayor's speech provides insight into how the city plans to tackle these complex issues in the year ahead.

The details

In his address, Mayor Scott announced funds for a new security deposit program and tax relief for longtime senior homeowners to help address the high cost of housing in Baltimore. He also discussed the city's community-led approach to reducing gun violence, foreshadowing the unveiling of Baltimore's second five-year Comprehensive Violence Prevention Plan.

  • Mayor Scott delivered the 2026 State of the City address on Tuesday night.
  • The mayor's speech included updates on programs and initiatives that will be rolled out in the coming year.

The players

Brandon Scott

The current mayor of Baltimore who is delivering his sixth State of the City address.

Elijah Cummings

The late U.S. Representative from Maryland who inspired Mayor Scott to pursue public service.

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What they’re saying

“As a proud son of this city, it's my job to do right by the people who raised me, the people who look up to me, and the people who will carry on the work long after I'm gone. Every day in this job is an opportunity to build a better, safer, healthier Baltimore, for every single person who calls our city home.”

— Brandon Scott, Mayor of Baltimore

What’s next

In the coming weeks, Mayor Scott is expected to unveil the city's second five-year Comprehensive Violence Prevention Plan, which will outline Baltimore's trauma-informed, community-led approach to reducing gun violence and homicides.

The takeaway

Mayor Scott's State of the City address highlighted his administration's focus on addressing the city's most pressing challenges, from the high cost of housing to the need for a comprehensive public safety strategy. By announcing new programs and initiatives, the mayor is signaling a continued commitment to improving the quality of life for all Baltimore residents.