THE video posted on social media of Wes Moore singing Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds endeared him to the Jamaican and wider West Indian community in Maryland state. It also gained him attention in Jamaica, the country with which he proudly identifies.

“My mother is a Trelawny girl, and you know I have family in MoBay and Kingston — I have family actually all over. I mean, I very much consider myself a ‘Yardie’ because I know that’s my family, that’s my foundation,” Moore, who was last November elected the first black governor of Maryland in its 245-year history, told the Jamaica Observer in an interview at Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston.

He and his family visit the island “probably about twice a year”, he said and pointed to a number of pull factors, including his heritage.

“When we come for holiday, my wife just loves being outside and going to the beach and everything. I enjoy that, but I get very antsy and so the great thing for me about Jamaica is the people, it’s the culture, it’s the food, it’s the diversity of the area. And so for me, I can easily go spend however long in Jamaica because every day is gonna give me a different opportunity to do something different,” said Moore.

He also expressed pride in Jamaica’s history and culture, saying that they are relatively unique in their potency.

Once he’s on island Moore ensures to avail himself of oxtail, as well as ackee and saltfish which, he said, can serve as either breakfast, lunch, or dinner. “I can have that anytime.”

Asked what is his preferred drink, he said, “I’m always good for a Red Stripe. I had a few here today while I was playing, playing golf with some friends but my favourite might actually be a good Ting and whisky.

Moore arrived in the island last Friday evening and was scheduled to depart after being conferred with an honorary doctorate by University of Commonwealth Caribbean at its graduation ceremony on Sunday afternoon.

While he was pleased with making the doctor’s visit, Moore said he is looking forward to returning “sometime, even this year” for a longer stay.

“Jamaica really is my respite and my refuge. I love coming here because, in many ways, this is a place that gives me such a deep sense of clarity and such a deep sense of connection — and I think I need both of those things to be able to recharge,” he said.