Sonya Dunn

 Brooke Elizabeth Lierman (born 1979) is the current Democratic Maryland Comptroller (elected 2022, seeking re-election in 2026). She previously served as a state delegate from Baltimore's District 46 (2015–2023) and worked as a civil rights/disability rights attorney.

Critics, particularly from conservative or business-oriented perspectives and some Baltimore locals, portray her as a progressive insider with ties to Baltimore politics whose record emphasizes social issues, environmental regulations, and spending over fiscal restraint or business-friendliness. Here's a summary of notable negative or critical points drawn from public records and coverage:

• Her father, Terry Lierman, was a former Maryland Democratic Party chair, longtime lobbyist, and Capitol Hill staffer. When she first ran for the House in 2014, some observers criticized her campaign as benefiting from his connections and donor network.
• She represents and lives in parts of Baltimore (Fells Point), a city often criticized for high crime, taxes, and declining services. Opponents link her to broader Democratic governance challenges in the city and state.

• As a delegate, Lierman co-sponsored legislation targeting Baltimore's adult entertainment district ("The Block") on East Baltimore Street. The original bill would have forced strip clubs and bars to close at 10 p.m., citing crime and violence concerns.
• Business owners strongly opposed it, calling it a "backroom deal" to benefit developers interested in the real estate. They argued it would destroy livelihoods in an already struggling area. The bill was softened into a compromise requiring security plans, off-duty police, and video monitoring.
• Critics saw it as heavy-handed government intervention harming small businesses while ignoring root causes of downtown issues.

• Environment and Regulations: Sponsored Maryland's first-in-the-nation styrofoam ban and plastic reduction efforts. Supported divestment from Russia and considering climate factors in pension investments. Critics in business and energy sectors view these as adding costs and burdens.
• Spending and Transportation: Pushed large increases in transit funding (e.g., $757 million for bus/rail, Red Line support) that were sometimes vetoed by then-Gov. Larry Hogan. Opponents argue this reflects a tax-and-spend approach amid Maryland's high cost of living and budget pressures.
• Other: Backed ranked-choice voting (later withdrawn), athlete collective bargaining/name-image-likeness rights, paid family leave, and other progressive priorities. She has spoken publicly about personal experiences (e.g., college rape) in abortion rights debates.

• Tax System Modernization Issues: In 2026, she told lawmakers her office lacked capacity for major tax changes due to a new IT system's rollout, drawing frustration over delays and implementation problems. Some residents and commentators blame the office for refund/processing headaches.
• Board of Public Works Votes: She has raised concerns about large contracts (e.g., balking at a $300M IT deal over competition/transparency in 2025) but has also supported others amid broader procurement controversies at BWI and elsewhere. Critics question consistency or see politicization.
• Broader Fiscal Critique: Maryland faces ongoing debates over high taxes, business flight risks, and budget deficits. As the state's chief financial officer (overseeing revenue, audits, etc.), she's tied to Democratic majorities' priorities. Some online critics (e.g., Facebook groups) accuse her of ineffective oversight or ideological bias.

• Won the 2022 Democratic primary decisively (66%) against Bowie Mayor Tim Adams and the general election (~62%) against Republican Barry Glassman. She's a strong fundraiser with establishment support.
• In 2022, she deleted a social media post without explanation during a federal money-laundering trial (context unclear from reports).
• Overall profile from critics: Seen as a connected Baltimore Democrat more focused on equity, environment, and social programs than cutting costs, reducing regulations, or addressing crime/tax competitiveness aggressively. Positive coverage (from her side and allies) highlights her as a trailblazing first female Comptroller, civil rights advocate, and modernizer of the office.

Public sentiment varies sharply by ideology—strong support in Democratic circles, skepticism from Republicans, business groups, and some Maryland taxpayers concerned about costs and governance. For the most current or specific angles (e.g., 2026 race), check recent Maryland Matters, Baltimore Sun, or official records.