Chairman Raser-Schramm's statement on the retirement of Senate Majority Leader Margaret Rose Henry

Delaware Democratic Party Chairman Erik Raser-Schramm has released the following statement after Senate Majority Leader Margaret Rose Henry's announcement she would not be seeking re-election in 2018:

Margaret Rose Henry is one of the most distinguished and historically significant members of the General Assembly – the first-ever black woman to serve in the Delaware State Senate. 

A warrior for change whose North Star has always been justice, Senator Henry was driven not only by who she was and where she came from, but also by the potential she saw in Wilmington’s young people and the great heights she knew they could reach. 

For 23 years, every speech, every vote, every piece of legislation, has been focused on expanding opportunity for those our society has historically overlooked. Her legislative accomplishments are far too numerous to mention here, but it’s not at all hyperbole to suggest she’s played a formative role in virtually every civil rights advancement we’ve seen in our state over the last quarter century.

We are fortunate that for another year, she will continue her work as Majority Leader in the Senate, where her wit, toughness, and work ethic have served our Caucus extraordinarily well. And when the final gavel drops, we will be sad to see her go, but happy that she will have a chance to enjoy retirement with her family. 

Change is inevitable in politics, and the Democratic Party knows that there is keen interest in this race. It’s unfortunate that Senator Henry wasn’t afforded the opportunity to announce this decision at a time of her choosing; that her hand was forced by the eagerness of a prospective candidate. But we take heart in the sincerity of her own statement, and know she’s reached this decision after a great deal of thought and reflection. Whoever follows her as the next Senator from the 2nd District will have enormous shoes to fill.