The race for the seat held by retiring Maryland Senator Ben Cardin is shaping up to be a crucial battle for control of Congress. 

The University of Maryland has been proposed as the host site for a debate between Larry Hogan and Angela Alsobrooks, sponsored by FOX 5 and the University’s Capital News Service. 

Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks was campaigning in Columbia Wednesday, just over 100 days before the election. 

FOX 5 asked the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate whether she would accept the invitation to debate Hogan on Sept. 12.

“I’m looking forward to debating Larry Hogan in the fall,” Alsobrooks responded. “I know that we’ve had a number of invitations that have come in. The team is looking through the invitations and will be responding to everyone right away, but I’m absolutely looking forward to debating him, and I think we all recognize the importance of holding the majority. This race is about who will have the 51st vote, whether it’s a caucus that’s empowered by Donald Trump or one that is soon to be empowered by Kamala Harris, and it’s a very important race.”

FOX 5 has reached out to the Hogan campaign for a response to the September debate invitation but has not yet received a reply. 

When asked several weeks ago, Maryland’s former Republican governor said, “I’m not sure. We’ve already committed to two debates and we haven’t heard anything from our opponent. I think at this point she’s refused to accept any debates. It’s not for me to decide. We’re going to wait to see. We can’t be doing debates every week, but we’ve committed to a couple of them. One in the Washington area and one in Baltimore.”

Alsobrooks responded to Hogan’s comments, saying, “Well, you know what I say, bless his heart. Larry Hogan’s spending all this time talking about me; he should be talking to voters like I am. I am looking forward to debating Larry Hogan and I think he should spend his time talking to voters.”

FOX 5 also asked voters for their thoughts on the potential debate. 

“I think debates are important, especially for new voters and especially for voters who are not sure who they’re going to vote for and don’t really know the candidates. It gives them a chance to see what the candidate is thinking about and understand their vision and platform,” said Howard County Councilmember Opel Jones.

“I think it would be important. I think there’s value in debate always,” added Maryland voter Lakey Boyd. “It really serves to illuminate maybe some pieces of the puzzle that we don’t always have media access to based on typical media coverage. So I think there’s value. I’m not sure it would completely influence my vote, but I think that’s actually part of the point… you don’t know until you know… until you hear the debate.”

FOX 5 will continue to seek definitive answers from both Hogan and Alsobrooks regarding the proposed debate.

MARYLAND — The best place in Maryland to plant roots for a lifetime is Silver Spring, according to Fortune’s new ranking of the nation’s 50 Best Places to Live for Families.

In the analysis, Fortune said Silver Spring, which has a population of 81,977, moved up from the No. 3 spot on last year’s list to take the top seat this year. The Washington, D.C., suburb offers local charm with the convenience of city life, just six miles away from DC — a quick commute via the Washington Metro or MARC train.

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich said Fortune’s ranking reflects what many residents already know: It’s part of a community that supports families in every way possible.

“Silver Spring’s top ranking as a family-friendly home speaks volumes about the quality of life we offer. The ranking is based on the best place ‘where multigenerational families are most likely to have access to great schools, highly recommended hospitals, affordable housing, resources for older adults and a strong sense of community.’ We have excellent educational opportunities, safe neighborhoods and abundant recreational facilities, including our new Silver Spring Recreation and Aquatic Center,” Elrich said in a statement. “Additionally, the county’s outstanding public schools, well-maintained parks and community centers create a nurturing environment where children and their families can thrive academically, socially and physically.

“For businesses, Silver Spring’s recognition as the best place to raise a family is a powerful testament to the area’s vitality and potential. Companies looking to relocate or expand will find a community that values education, safety and quality of life—key factors that attract top talent,” he said. “The diverse population offers a broad customer base and a workforce with a wide range of skills and perspectives, driving innovation and growth. Our community’s focus on inclusivity and support for families creates a stable and welcoming environment where businesses can prosper. “

Here’s what Fortune’s editors said about the city:

“Silver Spring stands out among its neighboring suburbs for its Arts & Entertainment District, home to 100-plus arts and humanities organizations, entertainment venues, and the like. Residents can watch an independent film at the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center or see an artist perform live at the Fillmore, an iconic music venue that’s hosted everyone from Aretha Franklin to Janis Joplin. Colorful murals and vibrant community centers help bring the area to life.

“In the downtown business district, there are more than 150 restaurants boasting a variety of cuisines. There’s also plenty to do for the outdoors-inclined, like biking in Sligo Creek Park, hiking Rock Creek Trail, or playing a round of golf at the Sligo Creek course. In the winter, there’s an outdoor skating rink to enjoy.

“Families considering moving to the area may soon luck out with a slightly more affordable housing market; home prices are down 4% compared with last year, per Redfin.”

Fortune said its list reflects qualities people look for when they decide where to raise families and retire.

“A great place to live not only supports families in the present but also serves them in the long term. With a growing portion of Americans caring for both children and aging parents, more people want to live where multigenerational families can thrive,” the news outlet said.

Fortune said it analyzed more than 2,000 cities and nearly 200 data categories, which included livability, financial health, resources for aging adults, education and wellness.

The cities chosen, one for each state, are sustainable for both their youngest and oldest residents and include fast-growing suburbs and edge cities that find creative ways to improve people’s well-being, Fortune said.