Delaware Political Weekly: Jan. 1-7, 2016

Hey, it’s an ELECTION YEAR! Try to contain your enthusiasm.

At least we’ve got some new news to share. But first, let’s see where we stand regarding already-filed candidates.

1. Already-Filed Candidates:

Primaries: Some points of interest.  Despite the numerous announcements of candidacies for Mayor of Wilmington, only three have filed so far: Theo Gregory, Bob Marshall, and Eugene Young. Trinidad Navarro has not yet filed for Insurance Commissioner while both Karen Weldin Stewart and Paul Gallagher have.  Only Bryan Townsend has filed for U. S. Congress, although others have formed committees. Only Dave Brady has filed in the 7th Rep. District to run for Bryon Short’s seat. Oy.

General Election.

2. Sen. Harris McDowell gets an R opponent.

Well, maybe.  A Newark city cop who lives in Wilmington (talk about a role reversal) has filed to challenge McDowell in the 1st Senatorial District.  His name is James Spadola.  He is both a cop and, yes, an Iraq war veteran.  He was part of this ‘Hug A Cop’ promotion in Newark.  Could be a problem, though.  You see, there is a standing State Supreme Court opinion that you cannot be both a law enforcement officer and a legislator.  Something about a constitutional prohibition barring someone from both making the laws and enforcing the laws (I know, it didn’t stop Tony DeLuca, but he had friends in high places). And, even with the ridiculous retirement benefits for cops, he’s nowhere near eligible for retirement (unless, perhaps, he can go the Dennis Williams route).  Now, if he was a D and got elected, he’d probably get a cushy job in security at Del-Tech.  But, his choices might be circumscribed.  Maybe some private security force can hire him to escort former Dupont employees from their offices?  I think it’s time for a serious challenge to McDowell from the D side.  I just don’t think a white buzz-cut cop from either party is gonna make a great challenger in Wilmington at the moment.

3. Karen Hartley-Nagle Primaries Chris Bullock for NCC President.

While Bullock hasn’t filed, we know he’s running. How do we know? Because we (or, to be accurate, I) have received content-free e-mails from Bullock in his capacity as NCC Prez throughout 2015. Touchy-feely crap. I think his campaign is paying for them, but I’m not sure.  Perennial candidate Hartley-Nagle could pose a challenge, especially if she is part of an unofficial anti-Gordon ticket.

4. Carl Pace Challenges Bruce Ennis in SD 14.

Folks, if you only read one candidate bio this year, let it be this one. Never mind, I’m gonna post it before it gets edited:

“A lifelong resident of the State of Delaware, Carl resides in Clayton with his wife Jade, daughter Emily and family dog Deputy.

Carl and his wife own businesses in Delaware, with offices located in Middletown.  While being an local entrepreneur, Carl also volunteers at Christiana Fire Company, where he serves as a Firefighter and EMT.  He has served Christiana Fire Company as an EMS Officer, Junior Adviser, and a member of the Board of Directors.

Formally, Carl was employed by MBNA America for a number of years; then served the community of New Castle County, as a law enforcement officer until March of 2015 when he decided to lead and manage his own organizations full time.

Leisurely Carl is a family man that enjoys nothing more than spending time with his family and friends.  Additionally, he is a sportsmen with a passion for the outdoors.

Carl has always found pleasure in community service.  In addition to volunteering in the Delaware State Fire Service he has spent countless hours working with non-profit organizations that support the homeless, disabled and those in need. As a result of his community involvement, Carl was nominated for the Francis X Norton Community Service Award, as well as being a recipient of the prestigious Jefferson Award for Community Service.

Carl has a proven record of leadership, dedication and community service that aligns him to be a successful Delaware State Senator!

Translation (I think): Another former cop who can’t write an intelligible sentence.  Kinda like the nickname “Leisurely Carl” Pace though, think I’m gonna keep it.  Just don’t trust anyone who names his dog “Deputy”. One more question, how long was this guy an NCC cop? Hard to tell from the bio. One last point: 2 R challengers, two law enforcement officers. The last thing we need are more cops in elective office.

5. Cribbed this one from Delaware Way.  One power plant opponent is running to replace a retiring power plant opponent on Newark City Council.

Well, that’s it for this week.  What did I miss and whaddayathink?