DOVER – In response to U.S. Sen. Tom Carper’s announcement Monday that he will not seek re-election, House Democratic Caucus leadership – House Speaker Pete Schwartzkopf, House Majority Leader Valerie Longhurst and House Majority Whip Melissa Minor-Brown – issued the following joint statement:
“There isn’t a corner of Delaware or a person involved in politics who hasn’t been affected in some way by Tom Carper. Beginning his career more than 45 years ago as State Treasurer, Sen. Carper has been a leader, champion and cheerleader for the First State, both at home and in Washington, D.C.
“Throughout his historic career in politics, Sen. Carper has always put Delaware first, evidenced by his years-long fight to rectify the injustice of Delaware being the only state to not have a national park. The First State National Historical Park is just one example of Sen. Carper delivering for Delaware, with the Wilmington Riverfront, record investments during his time as governor, numerous beach replenishments, bridge repairs along the C&D Canal, securing significant federal funding for various projects throughout the state, and countless other accomplishments adding to his legacy.
“It’s difficult to find a politician – of either party – or political staffer who hasn’t directly or indirectly been in Sen. Carper’s orbit or influenced by him. Our state is richer for having had Tom Carper serving it. While we’re saddened by his decision to retire, we’re happy that he is writing the conclusion to his own political story, and we wish him well in the next chapter of his life.”
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