In a debate between Angela Alsobrooks and Larry Hogan for the Maryland Senate race, the issue of abortion took center stage. Hogan, distancing himself from Trump, pledged to support federal protections for abortion and presented himself as an independent leader. In contrast, Alsobrooks warned against voting for Hogan as it would mean supporting a Senate Republican majority threatening abortion rights. The candidates also sparred over the Supreme Court and foreign policy issues such as support for Israel and Ukraine.
Hogan, a popular former governor, is seeking to become the first Republican to represent Maryland in the Senate since the 1980s. However, Alsobrooks, backed by prominent Democrats and leading in public polls, is vying to become Maryland’s first Black senator. The race has attracted national attention and significant spending on campaign ads.
The candidates disagreed on the Supreme Court’s politicization, with Hogan dodging questions on past confirmations and Alsobrooks supporting term limits or court expansion. They also differed on their approach to foreign policy, with Alsobrooks advocating for peace and security in Israel and self-determination for Palestinians, while Hogan touted his support for Israel.
Alsobrooks addressed criticism over tax breaks she claimed in Washington, attributing it to an oversight. Hogan suggested that this issue should not be the main focus for voters. The winner will replace Sen. Ben Cardin and serve alongside Sen. Chris Van Hollen on the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. The candidates’ views on abortion, the Supreme Court, and foreign policy could be crucial factors for voters in this closely watched Senate race.
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