As the political landscape shifts, Maryland Governor Wes Moore is sending a clear message to his fellow Democrats: the party must actively engage with all voters, especially as polls indicate that one of their historically loyal constituencies, Black voters, is increasingly rallying behind former President Donald Trump. Recent data, including a New York Times/Siena poll, reveals a notable uptick in support for Trump within this demographic, with 17% backing him—an increase of 10 percentage points since September 2020.
During an interview with a News channel at the 2024 Texas Tribune Festival, Moore addressed concerns about Trump’s rising appeal among Black voters. He emphasized that the party cannot take this voting bloc for granted and must work diligently to earn their support.
“I think you got to go earn support from every voter. And I think that is especially true amongst Black voters,”
Moore remarked. He pointed out that Black voters are not a monolithic group; their political affiliations are influenced by a variety of factors, including issues that resonate with their everyday experiences.
Moore highlighted the importance of addressing key issues such as access to employment, fair wages, and wealth-building opportunities, which are particularly relevant to the Black community. He advocated for a strategic approach that prioritizes these concerns to foster genuine connections and understanding. In this context, he praised Vice President Kamala Harris’s “opportunity economy” proposals, suggesting that they could play a pivotal role in winning over Black voters. He underscored that both Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, are committed to engaging directly with Black communities to demonstrate their dedication and earn their trust.
While Moore refrained from speculating on the reasons behind Trump’s increasing support among Black voters, he stressed that the critical issue may not be party affiliation itself, but rather voter turnout.
“I do think it’s really important that the way we’re engaging voters is not taking voters for granted,”
he said. He pointed out that many voters are currently undecided, and the upcoming election will hinge not only on party switching but also on whether individuals choose to cast their votes or abstain. “This election will be determined by those who choose to vote and those who choose not to. And that’s why I think there’s a lot of work to be done,” he added.
Moore, who is emerging as a prominent figure in the Democratic Party, was also asked about his views on masculinity, a topic that has garnered considerable media attention in the lead-up to the 2024 election. He articulated a nuanced perspective, saying, “I’m deeply proud of the person that I am. Yes, I am a person who enjoys shotgunning beers before football games, watching sports, and playing football.” However, he also emphasized his commitment to promoting the growth of women in leadership roles. Moore believes that one’s identity and interests should not be confined to traditional gender norms, stating, “I don’t think that we put ourselves in boxes in these things.”
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Moore is a passionate fan of the Baltimore Ravens. His athletic prowess was evident during his college years at Johns Hopkins University, where he excelled as a wide receiver, averaging an impressive 25.2 yards per reception in his senior year. Additionally, his experience as a U.S. Army veteran, including a deployment to Afghanistan as a lieutenant, further shapes his understanding of leadership and community service.
As the Democratic Party prepares for the challenges ahead, Moore’s insights serve as a reminder that engagement, authenticity, and responsiveness to voter needs will be crucial in maintaining support from diverse communities. His call to action resonates strongly, emphasizing that in a rapidly changing political environment, the emphasis should not only be on retaining votes but also on fostering an inclusive dialogue that empowers every voter to make their voice heard.
