Podcast Summary: The Breakfast Club – INTERVIEW: Gov. Wes Moore Calls Out Congress, Talks Kilmar Abrego Garcia, Enriching Black Businesses + More

Episode Details:

• Title: INTERVIEW: Gov. Wes Moore Calls Out Congress, Talks Kilmar Abrego Garcia, Enriching Black Businesses + More
• Host: The Breakfast Club with DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, and Charlamagne Tha God
• Release Date: May 2, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Breakfast Club, Governor Wes Moore of Maryland sits down with hosts Charlamagne Tha God, Jess Hilarious, and Lauren LaRosa to discuss a range of pressing issues. From economic strategies and racial wealth gaps to criminal justice reforms and confrontations with the Trump administration, Governor Moore provides insightful perspectives on his governance and national politics.

Economic Strategies and Maryland’s Success

Governor Moore opens the discussion by highlighting Maryland’s robust economic performance despite federal challenges. He emphasizes the state’s strategic approach to job creation and economic diversification.

Gov. Wes Moore (01:05): "Maryland has gone on 14 straight months of among the lowest unemployment rates in the entire country, with an unemployment rate of 3.3%, well below the national average."

Moore attributes Maryland’s success to aggressive budgeting, strategic cuts, and investment in new industries such as life sciences, IT, aerospace, and defense. He underscores the importance of state-level initiatives in fostering economic growth without relying on federal approval.

Gov. Wes Moore (03:26): "The money comes from building coalitions with the private sector and being creative about our partnerships."

Racial Wealth Gap and Support for Black Businesses

A significant portion of the interview delves into Moore’s initiatives to address the racial wealth gap in Maryland. He discusses policies aimed at supporting minority-owned businesses and ensuring equitable distribution of state resources.

Gov. Wes Moore (08:30): "We've passed the most comprehensive procurement reform bill in Maryland's history, allocating over $3 billion to Black businesses and Minority Business Enterprises (MBE). Now, 86% of all Maryland contracts require MBE participation."

Moore also touches on criminal justice reforms, including the largest mass pardon in U.S. history for misdemeanor cannabis convictions and comprehensive expungement reforms to give individuals a second chance.

Gov. Wes Moore (09:52): "We've signed the largest mass pardon in U.S. history, 175,000 pardons for misdemeanor cannabis convictions, and the most comprehensive expungement reform Maryland has ever seen."

Critique of the Trump Administration

Governor Moore is openly critical of the Trump administration, particularly its executive orders and handling of federal agencies. He emphasizes the limitations of presidential power without Congressional support and calls for stronger state-level responses.

Gov. Wes Moore (04:43): "Donald Trump has over 150 executive orders, most of which fall into being ineffective, performative, or illegal."

Moore argues that Trump’s actions, such as attempts to eliminate the Department of Education, are unconstitutional and highlights the disconnect between federal policies and state-level governance.

Gov. Wes Moore (07:14): "Donald Trump is violating the Constitution by not allowing due process. He cannot unilaterally eliminate departments like the Department of Education; that's Congress’s role."

Kilmar Abrego Garcia Case and Due Process

A focal point of the conversation is the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, whom Moore defends based on constitutional rights. He stresses the importance of due process regardless of an individual's immigration status.

Gov. Wes Moore (19:29): "Due process matters. Garcia needs to come home and stand trial, not because of Trump's arbitrary decisions."

Charlamagne probes further into the implications of Garcia’s case, prompting Moore to reiterate his stance on upholding the Constitution above presidential whims.

Gov. Wes Moore (21:53): "The Constitution still offers guidance on federal and state responsibilities. We must follow due process."

Collaboration with Local Leadership

Governor Moore praises the collaborative efforts with Baltimore’s Mayor Brandon Scott, highlighting Maryland’s overall positive trajectory in economic growth and reduction in violent crime.

Gov. Wes Moore (11:31): "Baltimore is generating the seventh fastest-growing economy in the country, and we're seeing historic drops in violent crime."

He credits this success to intentional investments and strategic partnerships that prioritize the state's most significant urban centers.

Criminal Justice and Public Safety Initiatives

Moore discusses Maryland’s comprehensive approach to public safety, including funding for local law enforcement, violence prevention programs, and support for offenders seeking rehabilitation.

Gov. Wes Moore (32:24): "Our Second Chance Act isn't automatic; it allows people to petition for a second look, ensuring those ready to reintegrate can do so."

He addresses concerns about public safety by balancing second chances with stringent measures for those convicted of serious crimes.

Personal Reflections and Leadership Philosophy

Throughout the interview, Governor Moore shares personal anecdotes that shape his leadership style. He emphasizes authenticity, resilience, and a deep connection to the people of Maryland.

Gov. Wes Moore (38:45): "I'm about the people. A political party does not give me my talking points."

Moore reflects on his upbringing and experiences, underscoring his commitment to public service and dedication to improving the lives of Maryland residents.

Upcoming Initiatives and Future Plans

Looking ahead, Governor Moore outlines future initiatives focused on workforce development, education, and economic resilience. He is optimistic about Maryland's prospects and advocates for replication of the state's successful models on a national level.

Gov. Wes Moore (26:52): "Leadership matters. Maryland is moving from a structural deficit to a surplus, with increasing labor force participation and new business starts."

Conclusion

The interview concludes with Governor Moore reaffirming his dedication to Maryland and his commitment to upholding constitutional principles. Hosts and guests express admiration for his leadership and express hope for his influence on a broader national stage.

Charlamagne Tha God (45:07): "We love the work you’re doing in Maryland. Somebody needs to replicate it on the national stage."

Notable Quotes:

• Gov. Wes Moore (03:26): "The money comes from building coalitions with the private sector and being creative about our partnerships."
• Gov. Wes Moore (08:30): "86% of all Maryland contracts now require some form of MBE participation."
• Gov. Wes Moore (19:29): "Due process matters. Garcia needs to come home and stand trial."
• Gov. Wes Moore (32:24): "Our Second Chance Act isn't automatic; it allows people to petition for a second look."

Key Takeaways:

• Maryland’s proactive economic policies have led to low unemployment and economic growth despite federal challenges.
• Governor Moore is committed to addressing the racial wealth gap through substantial support for Black and minority-owned businesses.
• He fiercely defends constitutional rights, particularly in cases like Kilmar Abrego Garcia, advocating for due process.
• Moore criticizes the Trump administration’s overreach and calls for stronger state and Congressional actions.
• Personal authenticity and a people-centric leadership approach define Moore’s governance style.

This episode offers an in-depth look into Governor Wes Moore's strategies, challenges, and vision for Maryland, providing valuable insights into state-level leadership amidst national political turbulence.