Eastern Sussex Dems busy hosting Carney, endorsing candidates

The April meeting of the Eastern Sussex Democratic Club was packed with action for local registered Democrats and friends. Not only did the club host Gov. John Carney, but they also took the opportunity to endorse Democratic candidates in both local and statewide races.

Before a packed house of 90-plus attendees at the Atlantic Sands Hotel in Rehoboth Beach, Carney talked about the necessity of having a working majority in the House and Senate in order to accomplish the goals of the Democrats. Those goals center around working to improve "the infrastructure of our lives," including creating jobs that pay a living wage, focusing on water quality, improving the quality of medical care and access to that care, and improving roads and transportation networks as top priorities.

Endorsements were next on the agenda, and first up was Kathy McGuiness for state auditor of accounts. McGuiness, who currently faces a three-way primary, was endorsed by the club because of her long list of qualifications, and her dedication to the work of Delaware's Democrats.

"Kathy is currently the vice president of Eastern Sussex Democrats; she's a Rehoboth commissioner, a druggist and an award-winning small business owner," said club President Lise Haupt. "We are proud to endorse someone who has shown herself to be such a dedicated Democrat, and we believe she is the best candidate for auditor of accounts."

The club also took the opportunity endorse Democratic candidates who are unopposed in primaries. At the top of this list was Pete Schwartzkopf, the sitting speaker of the Delaware House of Representatives, and candidate for re-election as state representative for the 14th Representative District.

Following not far behind on the club's list of endorsements were two other candidates for the Delaware House of Representative, Jack Bucchioni, who is running in the 20th, and Don Allan Jr., who is running in the 36th Representative District.

The club also endorsed former Sussex County Administrator David Baker, who is running for the Delaware Senate from the 6th Senatorial District. "David knows Sussex County, and we believe he will be a good representative as our next state senator," said Haupt.

The club's next meeting will be held Friday, June 8, from 8:45 to 10:45 a.m., at Touch of Italy on Route 1, Rehoboth Beach. The keynote speaker will be Sen. Chris Coons, followed by a candidate forum moderated by Schwartzkopf, and including Sen. Tom Carper's Campaign Manager Jill Farquharson, state attorney general candidate Lakresha Roberts, the aforementioned candidates McGuiness, Bucchioni, Allan and Baker, and Bob Wheatley for the Senate from the 31st.

The brunch costs $20 for club members and $25 nonmembers (cash or checks only). Participants may also join the club for $30.

All membership fees go directly to the candidates and their campaigns. RSVP to Haupt at liseshaupt@yahoo.com.