– Maryland Governor Wes Moore is scheduled to deliver his State of the State address tomorrow, , at noon in the House Chamber of the Maryland State House in Annapolis. The speech, expected to last approximately one hour, will outline the governor’s legislative priorities and assess the current state of the state.
The address comes as the Maryland General Assembly has recently commenced its 2026 legislative session. This annual speech provides a crucial platform for the governor to directly address the citizens of Maryland and articulate his vision for the year ahead. It also sets the stage for potential legislative battles and compromises as lawmakers begin to debate and vote on key policy initiatives.
Broadcast and Viewing Options
For those unable to attend in person, the address will be broadcast live statewide on Maryland Public Television (MPT). Viewers can access the livestream through MPT’s website, mpt.org/livestream, and via the free PBS app. A recorded version of the speech will be aired later in the evening at 7 p.m. On MPT and its livestream platform.
MPT will also make the address available on-demand through its website, mpt.org/stateofthestate, and on the MPT YouTube channel, providing multiple avenues for citizens to engage with the governor’s message at their convenience.
Coverage and Republican Response
MPT’s coverage of the State of the State address will be led by anchor Jeff Salkin and the State Circle team. Notably, the broadcast will also include the Republican Party’s perspective, featuring remarks from Maryland Senate Minority Leader Stephen S. Hershey Jr. This inclusion aims to provide a balanced presentation of viewpoints, reflecting the diverse political landscape of the state.
The decision to incorporate the Republican response underscores the importance of presenting a comprehensive view of the political discourse surrounding the governor’s address. It allows viewers to hear directly from the opposition party and understand their concerns and alternative proposals.
Legislative Context and Ongoing Issues
Governor Moore’s address arrives at a time of significant legislative activity in Maryland. The 2026 session is expected to address a range of pressing issues, including education, healthcare, economic development, and public safety. The governor is likely to outline his proposals for tackling these challenges and seek bipartisan support for his initiatives.
One notable legislative development currently under consideration is a proposed bill in the Maryland House of Delegates that would require the inclusion of third-party candidates in debates. This measure, if enacted, could significantly alter the dynamics of future elections by providing a platform for candidates outside the two major parties to present their views to a wider audience. The bill reflects a growing debate about ensuring fair representation and broadening the scope of political discourse.
Mid-Cycle Redistricting Consideration
Adding another layer of complexity to the political landscape, Governor Moore recently announced the formation of a commission to consider mid-cycle redistricting in Maryland. This move, described as “worth pressure testing,” suggests a willingness to re-evaluate the state’s electoral map before the next regularly scheduled redistricting process. Redistricting, the redrawing of electoral boundaries, can have a profound impact on the balance of power and the representation of different communities.
The commission’s deliberations are likely to be closely watched by political stakeholders and advocacy groups, as the outcome could significantly influence future elections. The governor’s decision to initiate this process demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing potential concerns about fairness and representation in the state’s electoral system.
Economic Developments
Beyond the legislative and political arenas, Maryland has also seen recent economic activity. Freedom Bank, a Maryland-based financial institution, was recently recognized with an award in Dubai, highlighting the state’s growing international connections and its role in the global economy. While seemingly unrelated to the State of the State address, this recognition underscores the broader context of Maryland’s economic development and its engagement with the international community.
Governor Moore is expected to address the state of Maryland’s economy in his speech, outlining his plans for fostering job growth, attracting investment, and supporting small businesses. The governor’s economic vision will likely be a central theme of his address, as he seeks to position Maryland as a leader in innovation and economic opportunity.
The State of the State address represents a critical moment for Governor Moore to articulate his agenda and rally support for his policies. The speech will be closely scrutinized by lawmakers, stakeholders, and citizens alike, as it sets the tone for the legislative session and shapes the direction of the state in the year ahead. The broadcast and online availability of the address ensure that a wide audience will have the opportunity to engage with the governor’s message and participate in the ongoing dialogue about the future of Maryland.
