Gov. Moore clearly understands the current needs, possibilities and challenges for Maryland residents - safe communities, access to affordable housing, economic opportunities, and a commitment to combat climate change. But his biggest asset is his willingness to collaborate as a solutions-oriented partner. Moving in partnership is vital to the success of our local communities and our entire state.

I appreciate that Gov. Moore understands the need to tackle childhood poverty and the importance of quality early childhood education. As a former teacher, I have seen up close how children struggle if their families are worried about being able to pay rent or put food on the table. And we know that providing the right start for children from an early age makes an enormous difference all the way to adulthood. The governor understands we need to invest in our people and in our infrastructure, including the need to find better ways to fund transportation for the future.

For the first time in a long time, we have leaders in the State House who extend a real hand of partnership to all of us at the local level. Partnership isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s the pragmatic thing to do so we can deliver results.

I look forward to continuing to work with Gov. Moore and his administration during this general assembly session and throughout the year.

Our challenges are great, but so are our strengths, and we have a governor with a clear vision and collaborative approach to lead our state to make us even better.

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