Maryland is traditionally a state where the Democratic Party is strong, having seen most Democratic candidates win in major elections over the past few decades. However, there have been instances where Republican candidates have won the gubernatorial election, indicating that while it is generally a blue state (strongly supportive of the Democratic Party), it tends to show moderate political tendencies.

Trends in Presidential Elections

• The Democratic Party is strong in presidential elections
• Democratic candidates have won every presidential election since 1992
• In the 2020 presidential election, Joe Biden (Democrat) won with approximately 65% of the vote

Maryland, particularly in areas adjacent to Washington D.C. (Montgomery County, Prince George's County) and Baltimore, shows overwhelming support for the Democratic Party.

In the U.S. presidential election held on November 5, 2024, Maryland supported the Democratic candidate Kamala Harris. Maryland is traditionally a state where the Democratic Party is strong, and in this election, Harris secured all 10 of Maryland's electoral votes. In contrast, Republican candidate Donald Trump won in 24 states, including Texas, ultimately securing 312 electoral votes to be elected president.

Changes in Gubernatorial Elections

• While Maryland shows a Democratic stronghold in presidential elections, there have been many instances of Republican candidates winning the gubernatorial election
• In the 2014 and 2018 gubernatorial elections, Larry Hogan (Republican) was elected and served two terms
• However, in the 2022 election, Democratic candidate Wes Moore was elected

Larry Hogan was a moderate Republican governor who gained high popularity by implementing bipartisan policies.
Wes Moore is Maryland's first Black governor and receives strong support from the Democratic base.

Key Political Issues and Policy Directions

✅ Progressive Policy Orientation

• Promotes progressive policies such as raising the minimum wage, environmental protection, and stricter gun regulations
• Supported the legalization of same-sex marriage in 2014

✅ Stricter Gun Regulations

• Maryland is one of the states with strict gun regulations in the U.S.
• Bans on semi-automatic rifles and requires strict background checks for gun purchases

✅ Legalization of Marijuana

• Decided to legalize recreational marijuana in a 2022 referendum

✅ Climate Change Response and Eco-Friendly Policies

• Maryland strongly promotes the protection of the Chesapeake Bay and policies for transitioning to green energy

✅ Close Relationship with the Federal Government

• Being adjacent to Washington D.C., there are many industries and officials related to the federal government
• Heavily influenced by changes in federal policies