Trump Rejects Wes Moore’s Invitation, Says Governor’s Tone Was “Nasty and Provocative”

Governor Wes Moore of Maryland extended a public invitation to Trump to join him, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, local prosecutors, law enforcement, and community leaders for a public safety walk through the city. Moore shared the invite both in a formal letter and on social media, saying the visit would highlight Baltimore’s progress in fighting crime and showcase data-backed solutions that have helped reduce violence across the city.

In his letter, Moore pointed to the results since taking office. He noted that homicides across Maryland have dropped by 20 percent since his inauguration. In Baltimore, the first half of 2025 saw a 22 percent decrease in homicides, a 19 percent decrease in non-fatal shootings, and continued double-digit reductions in gun violence. Moore credited partnerships with community leaders, prosecutors, and local police for driving those numbers down.

Trump’s response on Truth Social was far from supportive. He described Moore’s outreach as “nasty and provocative” and accused the governor of misrepresenting crime statistics. Trump called Baltimore a “crime disaster,” claimed Moore’s record on crime was “very bad,” and argued he should fix the city before inviting him for a walk. He went further, warning he could send in troops to handle Baltimore’s crime problem and threatening to reconsider federal money allocated for rebuilding the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Moore did not let Trump’s comments go unanswered. On Twitter, he shot back, saying Trump would do anything to avoid walking the streets of Baltimore. Referring to his history of avoiding military service, Moore called him “President Bone Spurs” and joked that if walking was too difficult, Trump could use a golf cart.

The clash highlights two opposing views on public safety. Moore says progress is being made through community-centered approaches, while Trump insists on portraying Baltimore as a city in crisis and suggests federal intervention. What was intended as an invitation to collaborate has quickly turned into a very public political fight.