Top Maryland Democrats are speaking out against a new ad from a super PAC supporting Republican U.S. Senate nominee Larry Hogan that targets his opponent, Angela Alsobrooks, by associating her with “corrupt” politicians from Prince George’s County, a majority-Black area where Alsobrooks serves as the top elected official. In response to the ad, Reps. Steny Hoyer and Glenn Ivey criticized Hogan for adopting Trump-style politics of character assassination. The ad suggests Alsobrooks is a “tax cheat,” referencing a report that she improperly claimed tax credits she didn’t qualify for. Hogan’s campaign sought to distance him from the ad, emphasizing his ties to Prince George’s County and the endorsement of local organizations.
Alsobrooks has addressed the tax issues and is working to rectify them, but the attack has provided Republicans with an opportunity in the closely watched Senate race. Democrats have also raised concerns about Hogan’s past positions on reproductive rights and potential ties to the GOP if elected to the Senate. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore and Sen. Chris Van Hollen, among others, have condemned the ad and its attempt to “denigrate” the people of Prince George’s County.
The super PAC responsible for the ad does not coordinate with Hogan’s campaign, but Democrats argue it is reminiscent of tactics used by Trump supporters. Despite the negative campaigning, Alsobrooks’ campaign has garnered support from everyday Marylanders, in contrast to Hogan’s backing from out-of-state sources. As the election approaches, the focus remains on the issues and the character of the candidates vying for Maryland’s Senate seat.
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