State of the State: Introductions and handshakes, applause lines and laugh lines, some intentional

By: William J. Ford

Outlets: Maryland Matters

Published: February 12, 2026

Words: 1,010

Last Updated: 2 weeks, 6 days ago

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There was the formal introduction and entrance and the formality of smiles and handshakes between two people at odds over an issue just discussed. There were the applause lines, met dutifully with applause by an audience packed tightly into the House of Delegates chamber.

There was the obligatory roll call and recognition of all the dignitaries in state elected and appointed office who turned out for Gov. Wes Moore’s fourth State of the State address …

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