Delaware voters go to the polls on Tuesday for the final primary of the 2026 election cycle. The season has been notable for the successes of progressives and socialists over traditional Democratic opponents. President Donald Trump has maintained significant influence in Republican races despite some challenges.
Primary Contests in Delaware
Democratic Senator Chris Coons and State Attorney General Kathy Jennings face primary contests. However, Democratic Representative Sarah McBride remains unchallenged as they prepare for the general elections. The Republicans aim to break the Democratic hold on statewide offices in Delaware.
These primaries mark the end of a dynamic season that saw the Democratic Party shaken up by victories from left-wing and Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) endorsed candidates. Some of these successful candidates even managed to unseat long-time incumbents.
Victories of the Progressive Movement
A year after socialist Zohran Mamdani’s surprising victory in New York City’s Democratic primary, the political left gained more ground. By June, progressives, including DSA members like Melat Kiros from Colorado and Darializa Avila Chevalier from New York, had ousted longstanding Democratic figures.
In August, the left celebrated further wins with Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan in Minnesota, and State Rep. Angie Nixon in Florida winning crucial Senate primaries. These victories highlight the growing clout of the progressive movement within the Democratic Party.
Though not without setbacks, such as Francesca Hong’s loss in Wisconsin, progressives advanced their agenda, advocating for policies like abolishing ICE, cutting military aid to Israel, and establishing a Medicare for All health system. Joe Caiazzo, a Democratic strategist, emphasized the importance of credible and accessible candidates for sustained progressive success.
Trump’s Endorsement Power
On the Republican side, Trump has continued to wield considerable power. His endorsements proved influential in Senate GOP primaries and many House races, although he faced defeats in gubernatorial primaries, including those of candidates in Georgia, South Carolina, Iowa, Wyoming, and Minnesota.
According to GOP strategist Ryan Williams, Trump remains a key figure in party politics, with his endorsement providing a significant boost in primaries. However, underlying issues with candidates still pose challenges that even Trump’s backing might not overcome.
Upcoming General Election
Following primaries in Delaware, Senator Chris Coons is seeking a third term in the Senate, facing insurgent Democrats Jeff Appelhans, Mary Louve, and Eric Hansen. Former state Senator Michael Katz and Army Reserves Col. John Shulli vie for the Republican nod.
Rep. Sarah McBride, running for her second term in Delaware’s statewide House seat, is unopposed in the Democratic primary. Republicans Joseph Arminio, Earl Cooper, and John Whalen are contesting for the GOP nomination.
State Attorney General Kathy Jennings is competing for the Democratic nomination against Dwayne Bensing and Patty Rickman. Meanwhile, David Graham is uncontested on the Republican side.
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