DOVER — Sen. Bryan Townsend, D-Newark, announced Thursday he is running for the U.S. House of Representatives.
His declaration comes just one day after Rep. John Carney, D-Del., revealed he plans to run for governor, leaving the seat vacant. Sen. Townsend had been considering a run for months but planned to run only if Rep. Carney was not seeking re-election.
He issued a statement around 10 a.m.
“Today, I ask for your support as I announce my campaign to represent Delaware in Congress,” he said.
“Delaware faces a significant challenge: rebuilding an economy that works for all Delawareans and that reverses the inequality spreading across America. That’s why our campaign will champion policies that grow and strengthen the middle class, provide every child with an opportunity to succeed, promote equal justice in the criminal justice system, and ensure retirement security for our seniors.
“Four years ago, I was joined by students, community leaders, and neighbors in a grassroots campaign for the Delaware State Senate. Although some doubted our prospects, Delawareans like you showed they’d back a candidate who reaches out, listens, and will always do the right thing for Delaware, even when it’s the hard thing.
“In the coming days, I will begin to announce my team for 2016 – a diverse group of Delawareans whose support I’m grateful to have. Together, we will engage thousands of Delawareans on their doorsteps and at gatherings across Sussex, Kent, New Castle, and Wilmington. We will build on a strong legislative record to reignite the energy of past campaigns, and put forth a vision for the future.”
Rep. Bryon Short, D-Arden, is also expected to make an announcement soon.
Republican Hans Reigle, the former mayor of Wyoming, has already declared his intent to run for Congress.