O'Malley has emerged as a solid leader

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

O'Donnell's words are meant to portray the governor as being all style with no substance, giving the impression of leadership rather than actual leadership.

Nothing could be further from the truth.

True leadership starts with knowing where you want to go, and O'Malley's vision for the state of Maryland, though facing challenging times, remains unwavering.

Martin O'Malley ran for office on the idea that there is no better investment we can make than the education of our citizens.

This means making Maryland schools the standard by which others strive to meet, and keeping college accessible to all those who pursue higher education.

This past year, O'Malley's administration moved toward these goals with record setting funding for school construction as well as the largest capital investment for community colleges in the state's history.

While fighting for the goals of today, a true leader must also demonstrate the foresight to plan for an uncertain future.

Prime examples of our governor's foresight are his efforts to bolster Maryland's standing in the global marketplace.

O'Malley's plan includes the creation of the state's first International Advisory Council along with the Maryland International Business Center, both of which will attract foreign investment to the state.

Under O'Malley, Maryland has opened six new foreign trade offices, and Maryland exports have risen 27 percent.

Rather than being satisfied with these accomplishments, our governor has made it clear that these are just the first steps, a foundation by which to build upon.

I see in O'Malley a leader who is proud of our state, but even more proud of our potential.

A leader who is energized by Maryland's prospects rather than daunted by doubt is exactly the leader O'Malley has proven himself to be.

Michael Guzman, Lexington Park