The 14th Representative District Democratic Committee salutes Rep. Pete Schwartzkopf as he steps down from the speakership of the Delaware House of Representatives. Pete's keen sense of the rhythm of Legislative Hall, and his jovial, yet firm leadership style helped ensure that some of the most protective legislation in Delaware's history was enacted during his decade of service as speaker of the House.
Pete instinctively knew exactly when to bring some of the most important – and by definition, controversial – pieces of legislation to the House floor and how to work with his Senate colleagues to get that legislation across the finish line. Recognizing that some of this legislation would require more than a simple majority vote, Pete worked across party lines to get things done for the 14th District and for Delaware as a whole.
A master in forging consensus, Pete helped enact critical protections and benefits for working families, including codifying increased wages, and protections and equality for the LGBTQ+ community. He also helped make Delaware a leader in gun safety, in reproductive health, in criminal justice reform and in strengthening voting rights. Thanks to Pete's leadership, Delaware is one of the safer, more welcoming states in the nation.
As if that record is not enough, Pete ensured that, even as he stepped down from the speakership, he was working strategically to pave the way for the first female speaker of the House in Delaware's history. This move, in turn, provided an opening for the first person of color to step into the majority leader position, and when she was elevated to majority leader, the first member of the LGBTQ+ community stepped into the majority whip position.
Whether bringing hot coffee and bagels to Democratic and Republican party poll workers alike or offering a warm hug or encouraging handshake, Pete's legacy is as much about being a friend as a strong leader. The 14th RD Democratic Committee is grateful that we will still have Pete as our representative for the remainder of his term. Thank you, Mr. Speaker!
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