Delaware voters cast ballots in the final primary contests of the 2026 midterm cycle, setting the stage for November's general election.
Key facts
- •Delaware's primary elections were held on the third Tuesday of September due to state law requirements.
- •Senator Chris Coons defeated three challengers, including Eric Hansen, to secure the Democratic nomination.
- •Mike Katz won the Republican primary for the Senate seat, defeating opponent John Shulli.
- •Joe Arminio won the Republican primary for the U.S. House seat held by Sarah McBride.
- •Senator Coons raised $6.8 million for his reelection bid, while his closest challenger reported $150,000.
Delaware held its primary elections on Tuesday, marking the final contests of the 2026 midterm election cycle. Democratic Senator Chris Coons secured his party's nomination for reelection, while former state lawmaker Mike Katz won the Republican primary to challenge him in November.
By the numbers
Senate and House Primary Results
Senator Coons, who has held his seat since 2010, defeated three primary challengers to advance to the general election. His campaign reported raising over $6.8 million, significantly outpacing his opponents. In the race for Delaware's lone U.S. House seat, incumbent Representative Sarah McBride faced no primary opposition. Republican Joe Arminio won his party's nomination to challenge McBride in the upcoming general election.
Political Context in Delaware
Delaware is considered a solidly blue state, with no Republican having won a Senate seat there since 1966. Representative McBride, the first transgender member of Congress, has faced scrutiny from some Republican colleagues during her first term, including a 2024 House rule change regarding restroom usage that was introduced by Representative Nancy Mace.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by CBS News Politics, The Hill.
