The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream shall never die

Don Peterson gets my vote for Progressive Hero of the Year. It took a lot of guts to challenge the execrable Pete Schwartzkopf. And from his letter to the Cape Gazette, I’m gratified that Don is going to keep working to make sure the voices of the Progressive 14th RD are going to be heard in Dover.

Elected officials should never take their positions for granted. All elections should be about choice.

For the first time in 14 years, Democratic voters in the14th District had that choice in this primary election. While I am disappointed in the outcome, I respect the decision of the voters. I congratulate Pete Scwhartzkopf on his victory, and wish him well in the general election.

I want to express my sincere thanks to my core campaign team, to all the volunteers and financial contributors who supported us, and to the voters who believed in our message of change.I am proud of the campaign that we ran – a completely grassroots effort staffed entirely by volunteers and financed by donations from individuals who share our vision. We were able to raise important issues that we care about. In the end, 26 percent of the voters agreed with us that it is time for a change.

This campaign has reinforced my personal commitment to help strengthen and grow the progressive movement in Delaware. I hope you will join me as we continue to advocate for repealing the death penalty and reforming our criminal justice system, reducing income inequality, making the state budget work for all the people, bringing clean water and affordable housing to all our residents, and to fight racism and bigotry wherever it appears.

Don Peterson
Rehoboth Beach