John,

Last week, a cargo ship collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, resulting in its collapse.

Within minutes, first responders were on the scene — and in the hours and days since the collapse, everyone has stepped up to serve. Maryland has risen to meet this moment.

We have spoken to the families, prayed with them, and assured them that our state will mobilize every resource to bring them closure. We are moving in close coordination with leaders at all levels of government and all parts of society to support those who have been touched by this tragedy. And we are moving with urgency to clear the channel, open the Port, and rebuild the bridge.

The President has voiced his full support for our work, and Maryland will continue to move in close contact with our federal partners until we get the job done. We’ve been standing together every step of the way alongside our county, city, and state leadership to respond to this ongoing crisis.

There is a long road ahead of us. The task before us is daunting. But our resolve is unshaken.

This work will take time. But we are going to make sure that we leave no one behind.

To all of the people of Maryland: In the face of danger, we hold out. That is what we’ve always done. That’s what we will continue to do.

We are Maryland tough. We are Baltimore strong. We will get through this together.

Elevate,

Wes