John,

Last Wednesday was a day I will never forget. Thanks to the great people of Maryland and our people-powered movement, I was sworn in as your Governor and Aruna was sworn in as your Lieutenant Governor. It was a historic day in our state’s history, and I was honored to share it with 10,000 of you.

For those of you who couldn’t be there, I thought I’d share some of my favorite moments from the day.

We began Inauguration Day by gathering at the Kunta Kinte-Alex Haley memorial in Annapolis to lay a wreath. It is here where two centuries ago, enslaved people arrived in this country against their will. As I was inaugurated the first Black governor of Maryland on the steps of a state capitol built by their hands, this day is a testament to the fact that progress is not inevitable, but progress is possible.

Then, we walked hand in hand to government house to start Maryland’s next chapter. Together, we as a state march forward.

My son James lead us in the pledge of allegiance. Dawn and I are so proud of him and his sister Mia — all three of them are my heart, my soul, and my everything.

I took my oath of office on two bibles that day: the bible of Frederick Douglass and the bible of my grandfather, Rev. James Thomas. They embody what it means to be a leader and what it means to be an American. As Governor, I am committed to carrying on their legacies.

I want you to see what I saw as I was inaugurated: this is our state in all its beauty, and this is who I’ll fight for every single day that I have the honor of being your governor.

Later that evening, we got the party started in Baltimore at The People’s Ball, organized by Dawn and Aruna’s husband David. Together, they put on an amazing celebration featuring the talent, history, and creativity that every corner of our state has to offer — and a whole lot of dancing!

I will remember this day for the rest of my life, and I thank you once again for all you’ve done to make it happen. Now, Aruna and I are already hard at work delivering on the promises we made and creating a state where we truly leave no one behind.

Maryland’s future is so bright it is blinding. We will be intentional, inclusive, and disciplined in seizing the opportunities in front of us. Our future starts now.

Elevate,

Wes