Delaware Democrats believe every Delawarean deserves access to a good-paying job, the ability to support their family, and the opportunity to build a secure future. We are committed to creating a fair and inclusive economy that lifts up all workers—especially those in communities that have historically been neglected. Sustained economic growth is only possible through forward-looking policies that serve the common good.
Infrastructure
Delaware must prioritize investments that both strengthen our economy and make daily life safer and more accessible. That means repairing and expanding roads, bridges, rail lines, and public transit—but also going further. We support a comprehensive, statewide approach to expand transportation access that includes pedestrian improvements like safe paths, sidewalks, crosswalks, and traffic calming measures, so that no one is forced to risk their life simply walking to essential destinations. Moreover, expanding high-speed internet in rural and underserved areas, modernizing energy infrastructure, and strengthening critical systems to withstand climate impacts are essential steps toward a more resilient and connected Delaware. Delaware Democrats also believe that rapid growth and development must not come at the expense of public infrastructure or community resources. We support reinstating mandatory school assessments and developer impact fees—particularly those that were removed in Sussex County—and ensuring they are implemented and enforced consistently across the state. These fees should be paid upfront by developers to cover the real costs of increased demand on schools, roads, utilities, and other essential services.
Wages
No one who works full-time should have to struggle to provide for their family. Delaware Democrats support raising the minimum wage to at least $20 an hour, addressing the reality of rising costs and inflation since 2021. We also support automatic increases to the minimum wage permanently tied to the cost of living, protecting wages over time. We believe workers deserve more than a paycheck. Delawareans deserve job stability, predictable schedules, paid sick leave, and the flexibility to care for their families without penalty. We call for major investments in child care infrastructure, including affordable day care, universal preschool, and after-school programs. Every child in Delaware deserves safe, high-quality care from infancy to adulthood, and every parent deserves the ability to work knowing their child is safe and supported.
Organized Labor
Delaware Democrats recognize that strong unions are essential to a thriving middle class. Every worker should have the freedom to organize and form a union, with the power to negotiate for fair wages, safe working conditions, and respect—regardless of their industry or employer. Preserving collective bargaining rights and prevailing wage laws is critical to protecting worker power, especially in publicly funded projects. We oppose any effort to weaken unions through so-called “right to work” laws, “paycheck protection” schemes, or any other anti-worker legislation. Empowering workers to advocate for themselves strengthens not just the workforce, but our entire economy.
Community Workforce Agreements
Public investments should benefit the people who reside where the work is being done. Delaware Democrats support mandatory local hire provisions in taxpayer-funded projects. Community workforce agreements help promote economic mobility, create job opportunities in underserved areas, and ensure public dollars strengthen local communities first.
Clean Energy Jobs
Delaware must lead in the clean energy transition—not only to address climate change, but to grow our economy in ways that are sustainable and just. We support investments in solar, wind, and energy-efficient technologies that reduce emissions and create good-paying, union-protected jobs. Further, investments in clean energy can fill the predicted shortfall in energy production to keep up with the state’s growth. We are committed to ensuring that clean energy growth includes job training and pathways for workers transitioning from fossil fuel industries, and that environmental and economic benefits reach historically marginalized communities first. Clean energy is not just about reducing carbon emissions—it’s about health, opportunity, equity, and a future that works for all.
Small Business
Small businesses are the heart of Delaware’s economy and serve as a key pathway to prosperity for families and communities alike. We support policies that eliminate barriers for small business owners—especially in underserved communities—by expanding access to capital, cutting unnecessary red tape, and increasing support for minority-owned enterprises. Delaware Democrats recognize that while our state is known as a place to save money—through advantages like no sales tax and an attractive retirement environment—we must also position ourselves as a place to build wealth and create new economic opportunities. Delaware Democrats also support public investment in business incubators, technical training, and grant programs that help entrepreneurs thrive and create local jobs. A fair economy is one where everyone has a real chance to start and grow a business.