Democrats Make Push to Pick Up 11th House District, 4th Sussex County Council District
Wilmington – Just before the filing deadline for parties to appoint candidates to their ballots, the Delaware Democratic Party filed two additional candidates to appear on their November ballots.
In the 11th Representative District, Rep. Greg Lavelle will face a challenge from Josh Schoenberg. For the past year and a half, Schoenberg has served as the Executive Director for the Delaware Democratic Party, and was previously involved in Governor Markell’s campaign, as well as numerous other campaigns around the country.
“Putting Josh on the ballot is a huge show of confidence from the Democratic Party,” said Jim Paoli, Coordinated Campaign Chairman.“Representative Lavelle has directed many of the Republicans’ efforts to block legislation supported by House Democrats and by Governor Markell. He and his caucus must be held accountable for their actions.”
“I am pleased to see Josh take a run for political office himself,” said Governor Markell. “With his varied experience in government, politics, and helping to grow his family business, I’m sure that voters in the 11th district will be eager to hear from him about his plans to move Delaware forward.”
Schoenberg will take a leave of absence from the party to run, but will maintain some part-time contract work to keep the Party’s accounts compliant with state and federal election law.
In Sussex County, the County Party has chosen Russ Melrath to run for the 4th County Council district, where he will face incumbent George Cole. Melrath is a retired State Farm Insurance executive and lives in Dagsboro. He has been active in Sussex County politics since moving here 10 years ago. He is a member of the Shore Democrats as well as the 38th District Democratic Committee. Russ is also a distance runner who can often be seen in local 5K races.
“I am very pleased to announce Russ’s candidacy,” said Ed O’Conner, Sussex County Democratic Chairman. “With strong candidates in Russ Melrath and Dennis Cordrey, we intend to show the Sussex County Council that they cannot simply kowtow to the big developers, and leave normal people in the lurch. We intend to bring a level of balance to the County Council, and like our chances with these two candidates.”
For a full listing of Democratic Candidates, please visit our website at www.deldems.org.
