Breaking: Don Peterson has filed to run against Speaker Pete Schwartzkopf in the Democratic Primary. Here is his press release:
Don Peterson, a progressive social activist from Rehoboth Beach, filed paperwork today to challenge Speaker of the House Pete Schwartzkopf in the Democratic primary. At stake is the State House seat for the 14th Representative District, which includes Rehoboth, Dewey, and parts of unincorporated Lewes.
According to a statement issued, Peterson says, “I am running for State Representative in the 14th District because I believe it’s time for a change. It’s time for a new, more progressive voice in Dover, for someone who has the time and energy to focus on the people of this District – all of them. I want to work to close the income inequality gap, reform our broken criminal justice system, strengthen the social safety net for those of us most in need, and provide open, transparent and responsive government.”
Recognizing the issues facing residents of Sussex County, Peterson is concerned about the lack of quality permanent jobs in the district and services available to meet the needs of our aging population. “Although we live in a relatively affluent area, there are under-served communities nearby that lack safe, secure and affordable housing, and even drinkable water. Social programs are underfunded, and a surprising level of racism still exists. These are important issues that we must not ignore,” he said.
Peterson believes his strong background in government budget and finance, his experience as a leadership and organizational coach, his lifelong commitment to social justice, and the knowledge he’s gleaned from his years of political and community activism in eastern Sussex County prepare him to deal with the range of challenging issues facing Delaware.
Pete’s moves seeking an early endorsement of both his own 14th RD and the 20th RD now make sense, as he expected to be primaried. And the resignations of most of the [progressive members] of the 14th RD board now make sense, as they are likely to support Don. [Update: commenters below have indicated that most of the board did not resign, but most of the progressive members did].