Maryland Governor Wes Moore Discusses Economic Impacts and Foreign Policy in CBS Interview

Maryland Democratic Governor Wes Moore appeared in an interview on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," moderated by senior White House and political correspondent Ed O'Keefe. The interview was taped on April 3, 2026, and is scheduled to air on April 5, 2026.

During the discussion, Moore addressed economic challenges linked to an ongoing war, including rising gas prices, inflation, climbing mortgage rates, and declining mortgage applications. A recent jobs report released on Friday prior to the interview showed positive results, but residents in Maryland reported feeling economic pressure.

Moore stated that governors lack control over national factors such as energy price spikes, which he illustrated with his mother's energy bill increasing from $140 in March of the previous year to nearly $500. He noted gas prices had risen by more than $1, attributing this to the decision to enter another war.

Moore emphasized that while governors cannot directly influence food prices or housing costs, they can address issues like price manipulation by large corporations and hold data center companies accountable. In Maryland, the state has implemented rebates to return funds to residents amid rising energy costs.

O'Keefe referenced a recent survey indicating a decline in Moore's approval rating, with disapprovals linked to tax and fee increases. The discussion included the possibility of waiving Maryland's gas tax, one of the highest in the country, to provide temporary relief.

Moore responded that the most effective solution to high gas prices would be to end foreign wars, which he described as contributing to the over-$1 increase. He disagreed with the president's view that prices would decrease once the war concludes, stating that the administration had not fully explained the causes or required actions to lower them.

Instead of a gas tax holiday, Moore highlighted Maryland's approach of providing tax cuts to the middle class for economic relief. He explained that the state asked wealthier residents to contribute more to fund initiatives, resulting in rising reading and math scores.

Maryland has also recorded one of the fastest drops in violent crime rates in the United States. These measures aim to support education and public safety amid broader economic pressures.

Moore expressed concerns about the U.S. entering another prolonged conflict, comparing it to his experience leading soldiers with the 82nd Airborne Division in Afghanistan. The United States remained in Afghanistan for 20 years, at a cost exceeding $2.5 trillion.

As a veteran, Moore warned of the risks of "forever wars" and their economic and human toll. The interview underscores ongoing debates about federal foreign policy decisions and their domestic repercussions, particularly for states like Maryland with significant commuting populations affected by fuel costs.

Looking ahead, Maryland's policies focus on targeted relief and accountability to mitigate national economic trends. The stakes involve balancing state budgets while supporting residents facing higher living expenses. Affected groups include middle-class families, with potential next steps including continued monitoring of corporate practices and evaluation of federal war resolutions to influence energy markets.