Well, any software could run with admin privileges (or try to). The reason I prefer using sudo is that it helps avoid collisions with other user-installed software, as does installing software in its own location rather than /usr/local.
Really, the question of homebrew vs. macports is a matter of personal taste, they both do essentially the same thing.
Perhaps related, you’ve mentioned that you run Docker. Could you explain why you’re using it, and how?