It’s time for Dems to take action

Sussex Academy recently hosted an open house for local elected officials, offering them an opportunity to tour the school, listen to speeches from the next generation of voters and participate in a question-and-answer session. 

The event was attended by seven members of the General Assembly, including senators and representatives from both sides of the aisle. Notably absent was Rep. Stell Parker Selby, who represents nearby District 20. 

Since suffering a health issue prior to the beginning of this year’s session in January, Parker Selby has not been able to attend a single day at Legislative Hall. She also has not made any public appearances. So far, that amounts to 28 legislative days and many more meetings of the transportation and sunset committees, of which Parker Selby is a member. 

Following our previous editorial about Parker Selby’s status in March, Democratic leadership made sure to swear her into office in her own home. A press release also noted her office staff continues to respond to constituent inquiries. 

But with less than two months left in this year’s session, we believe it’s time for the state’s Democratic leadership to take action. If Parker Selby is unable to fulfill the duties of her office for an entire legislative session, it’s time to hold a special election. 

On the surface, the Democrats’ overwhelming majority in the House may make it seem like Parker Selby’s vote isn’t very important. However, having the District 20 seat in Democratic control gives the party one vote shy of a supermajority, which can be used to override vetoes from the governor. 

Parker Selby won the seat by just 245 votes over Republican challenger Nikki Miller last November. If a special election is held, there is no guarantee Democrats will hold onto that seat. While that may not be the reason why they are reluctant to take action, it is worth noting the expectation for a state representative to actively participate in legislative duties should transcend partisan politics, as it is fundamentally about serving the community and upholding the responsibilities of the office.