Statement
Statement from County Executive Marc Elrich on the Inaugurations of Wes Moore as Governor and Aruna Miller as Lt. Governor
For Immediate Release: Wednesday 18 January
“Today is a historic day in Maryland. It was an honor to attend the swearing-in of Maryland’s 63rd Governor, Wes Moore and 10th Lt. Governor, Aruna Miller and witness this historic moment for our State. Maryland is the most diverse State in this nation and, for far too long, its leadership has not reflected the demographics nor principles of modern-day Marylanders. Now, Maryland’s two highest elected leaders are Black and South Asian.
Governor Moore and Lt. Governor Miller represent a new generation of engaged, compassionate and civic-minded constituents and are going to inspire many more to get involved in their communities around the entire state.
Today also marks the beginning of a new relationship with our state government. Governor Moore has continually shown that his priorities align with Montgomery County’s goals and that he is looking to partner with local governments, and with leaders throughout the state. I look forward to our partnership.
Governor Moore is committed to growing our state while making certain that nobody is left behind. As the Governor said in his speech today, “our future is bright, but only if we are intentional, inclusive, and disciplined.” His leadership, together with the leadership of Lt. Governor Miller, will ensure that Maryland will lead boldly and leave no person behind. Additionally, I agree with Governor Moore when he noted in his Inauguration speech that, “Maryland is asset rich but strategy poor.”
On behalf of the residents of Montgomery County, I am very excited to work with this Administration on the challenges that face our state such as making certain that every child has access to a world class education from Pre-K to higher ed. I also look forward to his plans on State efforts to combat climate change, ensure public safety, and provide affordable housing.
I am excited and supportive of his innovative “year of service” for some graduates out of high school. This is an example of the type of new ideas we need to invigorate our youth and expose them to enriching life experiences. We know that too many of our high schoolers leave unprepared for work. If Governor Moore can make a program like this work, it can be a game changer for our youth.
I am also encouraged that Governor Moore is prioritizing making the State more business friendly as well as raising the state’s minimum wage. We hope for his investment and support in our infrastructure, priorities, and projects that we have in the pipeline in Montgomery County.
And, as we continue to deal with the COVID pandemic and continue to protect the health and welfare of our constituents, I look forward to working with this Administration on closing the equity gaps that exist in our health, education, and planning investments and processes.
I encourage all residents of Montgomery County to share this historic moment in our State’s history with their children. There have been many Marylanders over the centuries who were oppressed, exiled, subjugated, tortured, and discriminated against. Today is memorable for many in our state who now have a Governor and Lt. Governor who look like them.
It’s a new day for the Free State.”
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Release ID: 23-003