Moore: Key races in South 'in play,' Democrats 'made mistakes' not investing earlier

Maryland Governor Wes Moore expressed confidence that Democrats would secure significant victories in November. He noted that several statewide races in historically red Southern states are now "in play" for Democrats, including Florida, Mississippi, and South Carolina. Moore attributed this shift to Democrats' failure to invest earlier in these regions, a mistake he believes has resulted in the underrepresentation of history-making candidates.

He highlighted his own achievement as the third African American governor elected in U.S. history as evidence of the potential for success in these areas.

Recent polls indicate that Democratic candidates in key races in Texas, Iowa, Kansas, and Alaska are either tied or leading against their Republican counterparts. Moore, who has personally invested in the campaigns of Democratic gubernatorial candidates in Texas, Georgia, and South Carolina, emphasized that the goal is not merely to make history, but to win and implement meaningful policies such as healthcare expansion, poverty reduction, and wage increases.

Moore predicted a successful election cycle for Democrats, attributing the energy to an expanded base rather than just increased enthusiasm. He observed this enthusiasm across Maryland during his re-election campaign and elsewhere, noting that people are seeking leadership that addresses not just opposition to Trump's policies but also pushes for a new direction.

While the 2026 midterm election is imminent, discussions about the 2028 presidential election are already gaining momentum. When asked about his potential candidacy, Moore reaffirmed his commitment to serving his term as governor, stating that his focus remains on his constituents in Maryland. He also expressed positive views on several potential 2028 Democratic presidential candidates, describing former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg as "remarkably competent," Governor Josh Shapiro as a "really solid advocate," Vice President Kamala Harris as "really decent person and great vice president," and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez as a "passionate advocate."