By Michael Phillips | MDBayNews
The 2026 Maryland gubernatorial election is set for November 3, 2026, with primary elections on June 23, 2026. As of January 13, 2026, the race remains in its early stages, though activity is accelerating ahead of the candidate filing deadline on February 24, 2026.
Maryland voters can expect a familiar dynamic: a well-funded Democratic incumbent seeking re-election in a state that has leaned heavily Democratic at the gubernatorial level for nearly a century.
Moore Campaigns for a Second Term
Incumbent Governor Wes Moore is running for re-election, again paired with Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller. Moore, first elected in 2022 and sworn in in 2023, formally launched his re-election campaign in September 2025.
The governor’s campaign messaging has emphasized public safety initiatives, workforce and economic development, education funding, and middle-class affordability. Recent polling conducted in late 2025 shows Moore with approval ratings in the low-to-mid 50 percent range, though some surveys indicate softening support amid looming state budget challenges.
Historically, Maryland remains one of the most Democratic states in the country. No incumbent Democratic governor has lost re-election since 1934, and early race ratings currently classify the 2026 contest as Safe Democratic.
Democratic Primary: Minimal Opposition So Far
The Democratic primary field is currently small, with Moore positioned as the overwhelming frontrunner.
- Wes Moore — Incumbent governor, running with Aruna Miller.
- Ralph Jaffe — A perennial candidate from Baltimore County who filed in July 2025, running with pastor Donald Palmore.
Some early speculation included businessman Ed Hale as a possible Democratic challenger, but Hale has since aligned himself with the Republican field.
Republican Field: Crowded but Unsettled
The Republican primary is more active, though no candidate has yet emerged as a clear statewide contender.
Candidates who have filed include:
- John A. Myrick — A federal executive consultant and former 2024 U.S. Senate candidate; the first Republican to file in February 2025. His running mate is former state delegate Brenda Thiam.
- Carl A. Brunner Jr. — A Carroll County firearms business owner who filed in July 2025, running with Kevin Rhodes.
Other Republicans who have declared or been mentioned include:
- Ed Hale, retired banker and owner of the Baltimore Blast.
- Kurt Wedekind, mentioned in early reports.
Several higher-profile Republicans remain on the sidelines. Senate Minority Leader Steve Hershey has formed an exploratory committee. Former Governor Larry Hogan has repeatedly suggested he is unlikely to run again, while names like Dan Cox and Bob Ehrlich continue to circulate without formal announcements.
Third-Party Candidate
- Andy Ellis — Former co-chair of the Maryland Green Party, declared for the general election.
What to Watch Next
With several weeks remaining before the filing deadline, the field—particularly on the Republican side—could still expand. Fundraising reports, early endorsements, and any late-entry high-profile candidates will help determine whether the race becomes more competitive or remains a largely uncontested re-election bid for the governor.
For official and continuously updated candidate information, Maryland voters can consult the Maryland State Board of Elections, which updates filings daily.
MDBayNews will continue to follow developments in the governor’s race, with a focus on how policy decisions, budget debates, and regional issues across the state may shape the 2026 election.
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