Democratic states lag behind Republicans on major construction projects

Maryland’s effort to replace the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which collapsed after a cargo ship collision in March 2024, has been marked by setbacks, including the cancellation of the chief construction contract and a delayed demolition that took 16 months. Governor Wes Moore pledged a 2028 completion, yet the reopening is now projected for 2030, with the budget swelling from under $2 billion to a range of $4.3 billion-$5.2 billion.

The author uses this case to illustrate a perceived pattern where Democratic states struggle with infrastructure, while Republican states such as Florida have repaired hurricane-damaged bridges in days and completed permanent upgrades within three years, and have advanced Brightline’s high-speed rail. Additional examples include Georgia’s new nuclear reactors and Texas outpacing California in housing construction. The commentary attributes Democratic delays to factors like diversity requirements, union constraints, and higher regulatory costs, suggesting future postponements are likely.