Wes Moore seeks to reclaim patriotism during DNC keynote speech

Maryland Governor Wes Moore, a U.S. Army veteran, delivered a powerful speech at the Democratic National Convention on Wednesday night. He urged Democrats to reclaim the idea of patriotism from Republicans by promoting an inclusive vision of what it means to love America.

“Making America great isn’t about telling people, ‘You’re not wanted,’” Moore said to an excited crowd. “And loving your country doesn’t mean lying about its history. It means recognizing that America’s ambitions can only be fulfilled with everyone’s help.”

Moore, who joined the Army at 17—the same age Vice-Presidential nominee Tim Walz joined the Army National Guard—connected military service with civic duty. He emphasized that the next 11 weeks leading to Election Day are a time to serve the country by voting and rejecting cynicism.

“We are a nation of patriots who serve even when the mission is tough and the outcome uncertain. Our history isn’t perfect,” Moore acknowledged. “But I’m not asking you to give up your skepticism—just don’t let it control you.”

At 45, Moore is the youngest Democratic governor in the country and the only Black governor currently serving. His speech, which came just before Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg’s, was the most high-profile moment of his political career so far.

During his speech, Moore reflected on his journey from author and entrepreneur to politician, sharing personal stories about his upbringing as the son of an immigrant single mother. He also honored the lives of six immigrants who died earlier this year while working on the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Moore praised Vice President Kamala Harris as the right leader for this moment. In an interview earlier, he criticized the GOP for distorting the meaning of patriotism, urging citizens to uphold America’s highest ideals.

“We owe it to those who came before us to ensure that America’s promise is fulfilled. We won’t be the generation that lets it slip away,” he said.

Moore has developed a strong friendship with Walz since taking office in January 2023. The two often discussed the challenges of navigating the time when some Democrats were urging President Joe Biden to step aside. Moore said they both agreed it would be disloyal to suggest Biden should step down.

“I’d stand with him in a foxhole anytime,” Moore said of Walz, joking that he hopes to join him on a hunting trip in Maryland one day.

But for now, Moore focused on the task ahead. “We have 75 days until Election Day,” he said. “75 days to show what true patriots do when the pressure is on—we get to work.”

From the stands, Auon’tai Anderson, a former Denver school board vice president, watched Moore leave the stage. He turned to his friend and said, “He’s going to be president one day.”