Delaware’s Final Primary of 2026 Highlights Political Shifts

Delaware holds the final primary of the 2026 election cycle. This wraps up a season marked by prominent victories of progressives and socialists against Democratic establishment rivals. President Donald Trump maintains strong influence in Republican contests, despite encountering setbacks.

Democratic Primary Challenges

Democratic Senator Chris Coons and State Attorney General Kathy Jennings both face primary opponents. Representative Sarah McBride stands unopposed in her primary. Democrats aim to preserve their control over Delaware’s statewide offices as Republicans attempt to end their dominance.

The Democratic primary season saw significant shifts. Left-wing and Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) backed candidates won several contests. This occasionally led to the ousting of longtime incumbents.

Recent Political Impacts

The 2025 victory of socialist New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani signaled a major shift. Far-left candidates continued their successes in June. Various incumbents lost to left-wing rivals, including DSA member Melat Kiros who defeated 15-term Democratic Rep. Diana DeGette of Colorado. Darializa Avila Chevalier beat five-term Democratic Rep. Adriano Espaillat of New York.

August witnessed more advances with wins in significant statewide Senate primaries. Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan in Minnesota, and state Rep. Angie Nixon in Florida secured victories.

Despite some setbacks, including Francesca Hong’s defeat in battleground Wisconsin’s Democratic gubernatorial primary, the left gained more influence in shaping the party’s ideology. Many winning candidates advocated for abolishing ICE, reducing military aid to Israel, and a single-payer “Medicare for All” health program.

“Progressives have built a coalition and have a message that can buoy a candidate when offering an acceptable alternative,” veteran Democratic strategist Joe Caiazzo commented to Fox News Digital.

Republican Primary Success

President Trump remains a powerful force in Republican nominations. He recently boasted about strong endorsements via social media. The Fox News Trump Primary Endorsement Tracker confirms high endorsement success rates in GOP primaries.

Trump redefined the GOP with the populist MAGA and America First factions gaining prominence. Despite setbacks, his influence retains strength. This year, five gubernatorial picks faced defeat, but such losses reveal that endorsements might not always lead to victory.

“The Republican Party is Trump’s party. An endorsement from the president boosts a candidate, yet won’t guarantee a win,” noted veteran GOP strategist Ryan Williams.

Delaware concludes a primary season beginning on March 3 in Texas, North Carolina, and Arkansas. Senator Chris Coons runs for a third full Senate term, competing against Jeff Appelhans, Mary Louve, and Eric Hansen for the Democratic nomination. Former state Sen. Michael Katz and Col. John Shulli vie for the Republican nomination.

Rep. Sarah McBride stands unchallenged in the Democratic primary, pursuing a second term in the statewide House. Republicans Joseph Arminio, Earl Cooper, and John Whalen vie for the GOP nomination.

State Attorney General Kathy Jennings faces Democratic opposition from attorney Dwayne Bensing and domestic violence advocate Patty Rickman. David Graham is the sole candidate for the GOP nomination.

Reported contributions were made by the Associated Press, with Paul Steinhauser covering the national campaign trail for Fox News.