2028 Presidential Hopeful Critiques His Own Party
Maryland Governor Wes Moore, a prominent Democratic figure, openly criticized his party during remarks at Politico’s 2026 Governors Summit on Thursday, asserting he does not “answer to party bosses.”
Despite persistent speculation about his potential candidacy for the 2028 presidential election, Moore has consistently denied any intention to run. “I don't come from a political world. I don't come from a political background, I don't come from the world of punditry,” he stated, emphasizing his independence from traditional political structures.
Moore recounted the challenges he faced, noting, “In fact, the Democratic Party put millions of dollars to try to stop me from winning. I don't answer to the Democratic Party; I answer to the only people who made me the Governor of Maryland, which is the people of Maryland.” His comments reflect a growing sentiment among some politicians who prioritize constituent needs over party loyalty.
While addressing the audience, Moore reiterated his focus on current responsibilities rather than future aspirations, claiming he is “not even thinking” about 2028. Earlier this week, he reiterated to various media outlets that he is “not running for president.”
As he prepares for reelection this year, Moore has encountered significant legislative hurdles. In December, state Democratic lawmakers overrode more than a dozen of his vetoes, highlighting tensions within the party. Additionally, his redistricting efforts have sparked controversy and resistance.
In an unexpected show of support, Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt, a Republican, defended Moore at the summit. “I have more respect for him now, knowing that he vetoed the bills,” Stitt remarked. He shared his own experiences with legislative overrides, illustrating that such challenges are common across party lines.
Moore has also faced criticism from former President Donald Trump regarding a recent sewage spill in the Potomac River, which has been labeled one of the largest in U.S. history by experts at the University of Maryland. Trump attributed the incident to “the Gross Mismanagement of Local Democrat Leaders,” specifically targeting Moore.
In response, Moore’s spokesperson Ammar Moussa quickly countered Trump’s claims, stating, “The president has his facts wrong—again. Since the last century, the federal government has been responsible for the Potomac Interceptor, which is the origin of the sewage leak.” Moussa emphasized that the Trump administration had failed to address the issue adequately, thereby endangering public health.
