News: FOX45 2-11-2026

“He didn't really speak to Marylanders today. He says he's not going to increase taxes. Again, that's an election year comment, but he didn't say how he was going to get there. He didn't say what he was going to do for Marylanders."

- Senator Steve Hershey, quoted in FOX45 News

FOX45 Coverage of the 2026 State of the State

Annapolis, Md.:

Governor Wes Moore delivered his 2026 State of the State address outlining a “Protect, Deliver, and Lead” agenda focused on affordability, education funding, economic development, and immigration policy. He proposed a balanced budget amid a projected $1.4 billion shortfall and highlighted investments in healthcare, energy rebates, workforce development, and a new citizenship initiative.

But as FOX45’s reporting made clear, Marylanders are still waiting for detailed answers.

Click the Video Clip to Watch the FOX45 coverage.

Leadership Requires Specifics — Not Slogans

Following the address, Senate Minority Leader Steve Hershey emphasized that Maryland families and employers need clarity, not campaign-year rhetoric.

Maryland is constitutionally required to pass a balanced budget. While the Governor pledged no new taxes or fees this year, he did not explain how the administration plans to close a $1.4 billion shortfall, particularly after last year’s budget included $1.6 billion in tax and fee increases.

“He didn’t really speak to Marylanders today,” Hershey said. “He says he’s not going to increase taxes. Again, that’s an election-year comment, but he didn’t say how he’s going to get there. He didn’t say what he was going to do for Marylanders.”

For families facing rising costs and businesses weighing whether to stay or relocate, the absence of a detailed affordability strategy remains a serious concern.

Accountability Must Come First

The address also did not directly address recent audits highlighting failures within state agencies, including troubling findings involving the Department of Human Services and the Social Services Administration.

Marylanders expect government to function effectively and transparently — especially when vulnerable children and families are involved. Strengthening oversight, demanding accountability, and ensuring taxpayer dollars are managed responsibly are not partisan issues. They are leadership responsibilities.

The Bottom Line

This is a pivotal moment for Maryland.

While the Governor framed his vision around broad themes, Marylanders deserve detailed plans, fiscal discipline, and steady leadership focused on affordability, accountability, and long-term economic stability.

Strong leadership means confronting hard truths, answering tough questions, and delivering real solutions, not just soaring rhetoric.

Read the original reporting by Mikenzie Frost and Lexi Nicklaus at FOX45 News.

State of the State: Moore blames Washington, GOP says Maryland needs leadership