The Delaware Democratic Party has endorsed former judge Mitch Crane in the Democratic Primary for Insurance Commissioner. This endorsement is as important for the Crane campaign as it is monumentally devastating to incumbent Karen Weldin Stewart. Indeed, has a Democratic incumbent not been endorsed for reelection by his or her own party? I can’t recall it happening in my politically aware lifetime.
Crane Campaign Manager Brian Boyle echoes my thoughts:
“I don’t know the last time our State Party endorsed a challenger over an incumbent in a primary. This endorsement is a strong statement by our Party that we hold our elected officials accountable. The current commissioner campaigned on Democratic promises, but has governed as a Republican by looking out for the narrow interests of insurance companies over consumers. We need to elect a Democrat who will govern as a Democrat and look out for the interests of the people, the policyholders. That’s what Mitch will do.”
Mitch’s reaction:
“I am humbled by today’s endorsement. As a lifelong Democrat who believes that the role of government is to protect people, I’m proud to have the support of our Democratic Party. I look forward to protecting and advocating for consumers if I am privileged to become our next Insurance Commissioner.”
I now wonder if Karen will drop out. I almost would expect her to.