MARYLAND, USA — Lighthearted jokes, smiles and support were exchanged early Thursday afternoon as Maryland's outgoing Republican Gov. Larry Hogan and his successor, Wes Moore, talked about their plans for a smooth transition of power.
Moore, who will be the first Black governor for the state, won the midterm elections Tuesday night, clearing the way for a Democrat to take the office after Hogan spent eight years in the role.
The two spoke to the press after having a very productive, as Hogan described it, one-on-one meeting at the Maryland State House. At the same time, their teams were also meeting to get the incoming administration up to speed. Hogan said he even gave Moore his personal cell phone number to be of help when needed as they transition into their next steps.
"There are a lot of things I wish I would of known and probably a lot of advice that I could give but the one piece I said was just make sure that he takes the time to enjoy the moment," Hogan said as Moore looked on with a smile.
Moore, with great enthusiasm, took in the advice and said he has so many things he wants to do but the seasoned governor also reminded him it is okay to pace himself.
Hogan said that he believes in Moore and that he will be a great governor to lead Marylanders.
"I have been very impressed with governor-elect more, I know his heart is in the right place, I think he ran for governor for the right reason," Gov. Hogan said, adding that admired Moore's military background and remarking that he is a smart man.
But the governor-elect shared his secret.
"Politics in many ways is kind of like an open book test, right? The people are going to give you the answers but you got to listen," Moore said.
This is what Moore said he plans to focus on, listening to the people of Maryland and making sure they feel safe in their homes.
Hogan chuckled as he went back to the mic expressing he wish he knew there was a test and how he didn't study - showing the banter between the two men on different sides, working for a common cause - the people of the state.
Moore on one hand is ready to be employed after being on the campaign trail and not working for two years while Hogan is ready to some peace and quiet.
"My message to all Marylanders is that I'm ready to get to work and I'm excited to be your governor whether or not I earned your support during the general election or not," Moore said. "I plan on going to earn it and for those who voted for me, I plan on keeping your support."
The inauguration for the 63rd governor of the state will take place on Jan. 18, 2023.
Watch the full presser here: