Governor Wes Moore has appointed Yaakov “Jake” Weissmann as Maryland’s next Secretary of Budget and Management, succeeding Helene Grady, who announced her departure earlier this year. Weissmann currently serves as Vice President of Government Relations and Community Affairs at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, where he has played a key role in advancing policy relationships and securing state funding. In announcing the appointment, Moore called Weissmann “an experienced public servant and one of the most effective policy minds in our state,” citing his “deep understanding of the Maryland budget” and leadership experience in both local and state government.
Weissmann brings a unique blend of legislative and administrative experience to the role. He previously served for more than a decade in the Maryland Senate, including as Chief of Staff to both Senate Presidents Thomas V. Mike Miller Jr. and Bill Ferguson. That tenure gave him an in-depth understanding of the state’s fiscal process and extensive bipartisan relationships. Budget and Taxation Committee Chair Sen. Guy Guzzone (D–Howard) called Weissmann a “great choice” for the role, while Vice Chair Sen. Jim Rosapepe (D–Prince George’s and Anne Arundel) described the appointment as “inspired,” adding that “Jake checks all the boxes. He’s very smart, knowledgeable, curious about making government work better.”
In his statement, Weissmann said he is “humbled and excited to serve under Governor Moore and to honor his administration’s commitment to fiscal responsibility, even during deeply challenging times.” He emphasized collaboration with the General Assembly to “ensure the steady management and administration of a balanced budget that delivers for all Marylanders.” Colleagues across party lines echoed optimism that his background and collegial demeanor will strengthen cooperation between the administration and the legislature amid ongoing budgetary and political tensions.
Weissmann’s appointment comes at a critical juncture as the Moore administration prepares for the final legislative session of the governor’s first term. His established rapport with lawmakers may help bridge recent divisions over fiscal priorities and administrative oversight. Senate Minority Leader Stephen S. Hershey (R–Upper Shore) praised the appointment, noting, “During his time as Chief of Staff to the late Senate President Mike Miller, I appreciated Jake’s commitment to honest dialogue and practical solutions… Maryland will benefit from his steady hand and institutional knowledge.” Weissmann will officially assume the position on October 22.
Former top Senate aide Weissmann to take over as next budget secretary – Maryland Matters
