John,

This week, USA Today published a profile of Wes, highlighting his story of overcoming obstacles early on in life to later become the first Black governor of Maryland.

When asked if his younger self envisioned this future, Wes said, "At 11, I was in handcuffs, so no.” Wes struggled in childhood after losing his father to a treatable illness. After getting into trouble for graffiti, Wes was sent to military school at age 13.

With the sacrifice and support of others like his grandparents, mother, and teachers, he ultimately went on to become a U.S. Army captain, Rhodes Scholar, small business owner, and leader at one of the nation’s largest poverty-fighting organizations, as well as a loving husband and father.

Wes has made it his life’s mission to “leave no one behind,” and that’s what he’s putting into practice now as Governor of Maryland. His life and his history-making election prove that progress is possible when we come together.

You can read the full feature about Wes’ story and his place in history here →

— Team Moore-Miller