Democrat Wes Moore cruised to victory in Maryland’s gubernatorial race, becoming the state’s first Black governor and returning the chief-executive post to his party.
The Associated Press called his victory over Republican Dan Cox shortly after polls closed at 8 p.m. No vote totals were immediately reported, but political prognosticators had rated the seat as “Safe Democrat” all fall.
Mr. Moore ran his campaign on leveling the opportunity playing field in Maryland for minorities, advancing the state’s education system, and restoring patriotism in a polarized era of politics.
Mr. Cox, a freshman state delegate, sought to paint Mr. Moore as being too left-wing for Maryland and ran on a law-and-order agenda, as well as reducing taxes and eradicating divisive curricula in schools.
Mr. Moore had led Mr. Cox by wide margins in polls for months, riding the Democrats’ 2-1 edge in voter registration in Maryland despite the pro-Republican national electoral environment.
He will succeed Republican Gov. Larry Hogan, who was term-limited from seeking a third term.
• Mica Soellner can be reached at msoellner@washingtontimes.com.
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