As a first-term Democratic governor of Maryland, Gov. Wes Moore quickly relied on his military training upon learning about the Key Bridge collapse. He emphasized the importance of checking on people, establishing accountability, and following up. The collapse of the bridge has resulted in the temporary closure of the critical Port of Baltimore.
Moore credits his military service for preparing him for such a catastrophic event. He stressed the importance of accomplishing missions regardless of personal differences, highlighting that American patriotism belongs to all political parties. Moore maintained a mindset of expecting the unexpected as he navigated the aftermath of the bridge collapse.
In late March, Moore received a call with news that seemed unimaginable – the Francis Scott Key Bridge had collapsed into the Patapsco River after being struck by a massive cargo ship. This bridge, a symbol of the region’s industrial history for almost 50 years, shattered into pieces, leading to the tragic deaths of six construction workers.
Moore is now faced with one of the most complex maritime and infrastructural challenges in the country. As he works diligently to secure federal funding to rebuild the bridge, he reflects on his military background and how his experience leading soldiers in Afghanistan unknowingly prepared him for this moment. He emphasizes that in times of crisis, uncertainty is the only certainty, and it is essential to adapt and respond to changing circumstances effectively.
As Governor Moore continues to work towards rebuilding this critical infrastructure, he remains committed to ensuring that safety remains a top priority while also maintaining economic growth opportunities for Marylanders.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge was built almost 50 years ago and has been an iconic symbol for millions across Maryland and beyond. The collapse has brought attention to its need for maintenance and repair as well as highlighting how critical infrastructure can be affected by natural disasters or human error.
Gov. Moore’s experience leading soldiers in combat zones has given him valuable skills needed during this time of crisis management. His focus on accountability and safety measures will ensure that Marylanders feel safe while rebuilding efforts are underway.
As Governor Moore continues to lead his state through this challenging time, it’s clear that he will do whatever it takes to restore normalcy while also ensuring that necessary steps are taken to prevent such incidents from happening again in future years.