I used Ubuntu once a few years ago but had compatability issues so I went back to windows. Not a great programmer but I'd like to learn. I'm not looking to do much gaming beyond DOOM2 and factorio. Mostly looking for privacy and a way to get back into programming (I have this pipe dream of learning Assembly). I'm not to particular on UI, I can use whatever.
Edit: https://distrochooser.de for anyone who stumbles upon this post with the same question
Debian with GNOME
I'd agree with the choice of Debian (or a derivation as LMDE, *buntu, Linux Mint, …), but would suggest KDE. Anyway, I think a beginner should try the distro of their choice on a live medium first to get in touch with the look and feel of the desktop environment.