Two candidates are vying for the role of Maryland comptroller: Harford County Executive Barry Glassman (R) and Maryland Del. Brooke Lierman (D-Baltimore City). Lierman has emphasized her experience as a civil rights lawyer and a leader in the general assembly. Glassman has distanced himself from far-right GOP candidates, instead focusing on his 30-plus years of experience in the Maryland general assembly and as county executive.

The candidates sit down with Kojo and Tom to discuss why they’re running for comptroller — and what the comptroller even does, anyway. After that civics lesson, we’ll get into some of the issues. Where do they stand on plans to widen the Beltway and I-270? Would they make changes to the state retirement and pension system? And what changes would they make to the comptroller’s office itself?

Plus, WMATA and the Washington Metrorail Safety Commission are struggling to agree on a plan to bring the 7000-series trains back into service. This could mean further delays in opening the Silver Line extension to Dulles Airport. Will the extension open in time for Thanksgiving? WAMU and DCist transportation reporter Jordan Pascale gives us the latest.

It’s election season! WAMU and DCist have put together voter guides and election stories for D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Find them here.