Delaware holds final primary before November midterms

Delaware voters are casting ballots in the final state primary of the 2026 election cycle on Tuesday, September 16, setting the stage for the November midterms. The contests will determine nominees for federal, state, and local offices in a deep-blue state where Democrats have long held a firm grip on power. In the most closely watched race, Democratic U.S. Senator Chris Coons is seeking a third full term and faces three primary challengers: University of Delaware history professor Jeff Appelhans, naval architect Mary Louve, and former business executive Eric Hansen. Hansen, who was the Republican Senate nominee in 2024, is now running as a Democrat and appears on the ballot under the name E. NoTrump Hansen. Coons has reported raising approximately $6.9 million for his campaign, a significant financial advantage over his opponents. Democratic U.S. Representative Sarah McBride, the first openly transgender member of Congress, is unopposed in her primary as she seeks a second term representing Delaware's sole House seat. On the Republican side, Joseph Arminio, Earl Cooper, and John Whalen are competing for the nomination to challenge her in November.