When transparency is tested

PUBLISHED: March 10, 2026 | foxbaltimore.com

Friendship does not excuse silence when questions of public trust arise. In fact, it demands the opposite. When someone we know and respect holds a position of public authority, candor becomes even more necessary.

I write these words not as a distant observer, but as someone who has known Gov. Wes Moore for many years. Our relationship long predates his time in public office. That history of friendship makes this moment more difficult, but it also makes honesty more important.

Recently, journalists with Spotlight on Maryland have asked questions and requested the release of certain public records from the governor’s office under Maryland’s public information laws. Their inquiry represents the normal and essential function of investigative reporting in a democratic society.

Yet the response from the administration has been marked by hesitation and delay. Many questions remain unanswered.

Transparency is not a partisan demand. It is a democratic obligation.

Maryland’s citizens have every right to expect openness from their government. Public records laws exist for a reason: to ensure that decisions made by those entrusted with power can be examined by the people they serve. Journalism plays an essential role in that process, even when the questions are uncomfortable.

Gov. Moore has built much of his public reputation on themes of integrity, accountability and moral leadership. Those are admirable commitments. But such principles are not proven in moments of praise; they are tested in moments of scrutiny.

Refusing or delaying the release of records and information only invites speculation. It allows critics to fill the vacuum with suspicion and doubt. In politics, perception can quickly become reality.

The wiser course is almost always the simplest: tell the truth and release the facts.

Even if the documents or answers do not cast the administration in the most favorable light, the long arc of public judgment often favors those who confront difficult truths directly. The American public has repeatedly shown a remarkable capacity for forgiveness when leaders acknowledge mistakes or uncomfortable realities with honesty.

What citizens rarely forgive is the appearance of concealment.

Transparency, after all, is not merely about compliance with the law. It is about character. It signals confidence in one’s own integrity and respect for the intelligence of the public.

Moore remains one of the most promising political leaders of his generation. Precisely for that reason, this moment matters. Leadership is defined not only by bold initiatives or inspiring speeches, but also by the willingness to open the books when questions arise.

The requests from Spotlight on Maryland should not be viewed as an attack. They should be understood as part of the democratic process that ultimately strengthens public confidence.

The path forward is clear: answer the questions, release the records, allow the facts to stand on their own and trust the people of Maryland to judge fairly.

Truth has a way of strengthening leaders who are willing to stand in its light.

Armstrong Williams (www.armstrongwilliams.com; @arightside) is a political analyst, syndicated columnist and owner of the broadcasting company, Howard Stirk Holdings. He is also part owner of The Baltimore Sun.