Annapolis, MD, January 20, 2026
Governor Wes Moore has raised nearly $4 million for his state campaign in Maryland over the past year, marking a significant accomplishment in his political efforts. His fundraising activities include notable contributions during a legally restricted period, demonstrating his ability to attract financial support for his upcoming re-election campaign in 2026. The involvement of the Unity First PAC alongside Moore’s campaign highlights the complexities of campaign finance and strategy in modern politics.
Governor Wes Moore’s Record-Breaking Fundraising Efforts
ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Wes Moore has achieved a significant milestone in Maryland’s political landscape by raising nearly $4 million for his state campaign account over the past year. This substantial sum was accumulated through various fundraising activities, including events where Moore served as a featured guest. Notably, during the final two weeks of the legislative session in Annapolis, a period when officials are legally barred from raising money, Moore’s associated federal political action committee, Unity First PAC, raised approximately $85,000.
Details of the Fundraising Activities
The principal campaign committee reported raising just shy of $3.8 million and concluded the reporting period with over $4 million in the bank. Over the past year, Moore’s campaign expenditures exceeded $1.7 million, primarily allocated to staff salaries, travel, and payments to consultants. Additionally, Unity First PAC, an independent expenditure committee not directly working with Moore, collected $267,000 from 10 individuals, seven companies, and several unidentified online donations in the first half of the year. The largest contribution to Unity First PAC was a $100,000 donation from Nicholas Cortezi, an executive at the insurance firm Ryan Specialty.
Context and Implications
These fundraising efforts underscore Moore’s strong political presence and his capacity to mobilize substantial financial support. The funds raised are intended to bolster Moore’s re-election campaign in 2026, reflecting his ongoing commitment to Maryland’s future. The involvement of Unity First PAC, which operates independently of Moore’s direct campaign, highlights the complex nature of campaign finance laws and the strategic avenues available to political figures. While Moore does not have a formal role with Unity First PAC, the group’s activities and fundraising events have been aligned with his political objectives.
Background on Governor Wes Moore
Wes Moore, a Democrat, assumed office as Maryland’s governor in January 2023. Prior to his gubernatorial tenure, Moore served as the CEO of the Robin Hood Foundation, a charitable organization focused on alleviating poverty in New York City. His leadership there included raising over $650 million, with $230 million raised in 2020 to address increased needs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Recent Legislative Actions
In May 2025, Governor Moore vetoed a bill that aimed to study reparations in Maryland. He stated that a model to conduct such a study at the state level already exists elsewhere and that the policy solution would be more appropriate at the federal level. Moore emphasized that Maryland is not in a position to fund and staff studies for which significant work has already been done in other states or by academic institutions.
Looking Ahead
As Governor Moore continues to implement his policy agenda, the substantial funds raised will play a crucial role in supporting his initiatives and securing his position in the upcoming 2026 election. The strategic use of both his campaign committee and associated PAC demonstrates a multifaceted approach to political fundraising and campaign development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the total amount raised by Governor Wes Moore for his state campaign account?
Governor Wes Moore has raised nearly $4 million for his state campaign account over the past year.
How much did Unity First PAC raise during the final two weeks of the legislative session?
During the final two weeks of the legislative session in Annapolis, Unity First PAC raised approximately $85,000.
Who is the largest contributor to Unity First PAC?
The largest contribution to Unity First PAC was a $100,000 donation from Nicholas Cortezi, an executive at Ryan Specialty.
What was Governor Moore’s position on the reparations study bill in May 2025?
In May 2025, Governor Moore vetoed a bill that aimed to study reparations in Maryland, stating that a model to conduct such a study at the state level already exists elsewhere and that the policy solution would be more appropriate at the federal level.
What was Governor Moore’s role before becoming Maryland’s governor?
Before his gubernatorial tenure, Governor Moore served as the CEO of the Robin Hood Foundation, a charitable organization focused on alleviating poverty in New York City.
Key Features of Governor Wes Moore’s Fundraising Efforts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Amount Raised | Nearly $4 million for the state campaign account over the past year. |
| Unity First PAC Fundraising | Raised approximately $85,000 during the final two weeks of the legislative session. |
| Largest Contributor to Unity First PAC | $100,000 donation from Nicholas Cortezi, an executive at Ryan Specialty. |
| Governor’s Previous Role | CEO of the Robin Hood Foundation, focusing on alleviating poverty in New York City. |
| Governor’s Position on Reparations Study Bill | Vetoed the bill, stating that the policy solution would be more appropriate at the federal level. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
