DOVER, Del. — As Election Day approaches, Delaware Democrats are eager to preserve their long-standing dominance in the governor’s office, while Republicans are pushing for a surprising victory that could shift the balance of power by placing a member of their party in a prominent executive position.
In this election, Democrat Matt Meyer faces off against Republican Michael Ramone. Meyer is currently the chief executive of New Castle County, which is the most populated county in the state. On the other hand, Ramone is an entrepreneur and the House minority leader in Delaware’s General Assembly.
Democrats have maintained control over both legislative chambers and have held the governorship since 1989. Ramone has made the case that restoring a political equilibrium within state government would be beneficial for Delawareans. Acknowledged for his ability to collaborate across party lines, he has been re-elected multiple times from a district where there is a significant Democrat majority. This bipartisan approach may help him attract moderate Democrats and independent voters, although he is likely to encounter significant challenges in a state where Democratic voter registration significantly outnumbers Republican.
Throughout their campaigns, education has been a focal point for both candidates. Meyer, drawing from his experience as a middle school math teacher, emphasizes the need for enhanced funding for public education, particularly aimed at low-income families, students with disabilities, and English language learners. He also advocates for universal pre-kindergarten and improved salaries for public school teachers.
Conversely, Ramone supports incentive-based pay for teachers, increased access to school voucher programs, and ensuring that more funding reaches classrooms instead of being allocated for administrative purposes.
Having been elected to the state House in 2008, Ramone clinched the Republican gubernatorial nomination by securing 72% of the votes in a competitive three-way primary. Meanwhile, Meyer advanced to the general election by defeating Lt. Gov. Bethany Hall-Long and former state Environmental Secretary Collin O’Mara in the Democratic primary, achieving 47% of the vote. His campaign was bolstered by high fundraising efforts and a scandal linked to Hall-Long’s campaign finances, which involved allegations of misuse of office resources for personal activities.
The current governor, John Carney, a Democrat who is unable to run for a third term, is expected to become the mayor of Wilmington after successfully winning a Democratic primary earlier in September.
Polls will be open for casting votes on Tuesday from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m.