O'Malley Speaks of "One Maryland" at Solomon's Pier

Solomons - 1/13/2007

By Staff Writer Daniel Gross

 
 Governor-Elect O'Malley is introduced by Senator Roy Dyson
The Bay Net Photo by Daniel Gross
On Thursday, January 11, at Solomon’s Pier Restaurant, Governor-Elect Martin O’Malley spoke on his vision for the state of Maryland in his upcoming term as Governor. 

He began his speech after a short welcome and introduction by Sheila Sullivan and Senator Roy Dyson.  At the pier and in the audience were numerous politicians and county government officials such as St. Mary’s County Commissioner Tom Mattingly, Calvert County Commissioner Wilson Parran, and Former State Senator Frank Raley. 

After an energetic introduction by Senator Dyson, calling the new administration, “a breath of fresh air,” O’Malley took the podium and delivered his speech to his Southern Maryland constituents. 

Previously serving two terms as the mayor of Baltimore, prior to running for Governor, O’Malley expressed the warm feelings he has for Maryland to the audience.  “We have tremendous opportunities as a state,” he said, “especially when I look at all of the hard-working Marylanders.” 

 
The Bay Net Photo
by Matthew Hardman
“Compromise is not a dirty word,” said O’Malley.  “It is a common ground.” 

There were multiple issues O’Malley was pressed with, and he covered many of the topics compellingly, according to members of the audience. Among the top priorities O’Malley outlined were transportation plans, protecting Maryland’s families and neighborhoods, making home ownership more affordable, strengthening Maryland’s farming communities, providing affordable, quality health care, and of course, “having the opportunity to come together,” he said, “as One Maryland.” 

“We have a tremendous challenge, yes.  But Kennedy once said that the greatest privilege is the privilege of responsibility,” said O’Malley. 

Although not in office at this point, O’Malley is making commitments to the public that reassured and delighted many who had come to hear him speak. “We will not raid open space dollars,” O’Malley said amid cheers.  “We will not raid the transport trust fund.”

O’Malley predicted a challenging, yet beneficial year. He expressed his excitement at being elected the new Governor of Maryland and being part of the continuing progress of the state. And, according to O’Malley, “Progress is the issue closest to my heart.”