“You Have to Show and Prove”: Wes Moore on the Midterms | Gov. Wes Moore

The Maryland governor on ICE, AI guardrails, and governing beyond the base

Maryland Governor Wes Moore joins The Margin for a conversation about the power—and the limits—of state government as the 2026 midterms approach.

The interview begins with election security. Moore responds to attacks on Maryland’s election administration and discusses threats to send federal agents to polling places, arguing that states have an essential role in protecting free and fair elections. The conversation then turns to ICE, including recent confrontations in Maryland, the agency’s dramatic growth in funding, accountability for federal agents, and what governors can do when federal immigration enforcement reaches into their communities.

Moore also discusses artificial intelligence, calling for stronger guardrails around children, deepfakes, national security, infrastructure, and weapons systems while arguing that AI can still deliver meaningful benefits in areas such as health and education.

And with the midterms approaching, the conversation turns to persuasion. Moore explains why he believes politicians have to talk to voters across party lines and tells the story of a Republican mayor in western Maryland who did not support him the first time he ran—but later endorsed his reelection after working with his administration following devastating flooding. His takeaway: politicians have to “show and prove,” make their case, and accept that persuasion begins with showing people who you’re willing to fight for.

The Margin is a collaboration between The Electorette and URL Media, focused on the voters, communities, and issues shaping the margins of the 2026 midterm elections. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices