October 2026
By Mary Boggi

Primary elections are really where the magic happens. They determine which candidates get to step into the main spotlight for their parties before heading into the general election. In places like Delaware, where Democrats have traditionally held strong statewide ground, the primary is often where the real battle takes place. In fact, according to recent data from the Department of Elections, about 60% of primary winners in Delaware end up winning the general election, showing just how crucial this early phase is for shaping the state’s political future.

Looking at voter engagement for the past two election cycles provides a snapshot of how involved Delawareans are in the voting process. For 2024’s Delaware primary, 556,668 people were registered to vote. Ballots were cast by 124,763 of them, or 22.4%. Two years later, 2026, the number of registered voters increased to 593,286, a 6.6% jump. On September 15, the number of ballots cast was 129,031, or 21.7 % of registered voters.. While more Delawareans registered to vote in 2026, the percentage of votes cast across the board decreased slightly.

In the 14th District, even without a primary contest for Representative Claire Snyder-Hall, Democratic turnout soared to an impressive 43%. This level of participation isn’t just a nice stat on paper. It’s the lifeblood of the whole democratic process. Showing up to vote reshapes the political landscape, ensuring that elected leaders reflect the community’s priorities and values.

High participation really makes all the difference. Plain and simple, when Democrats show up at the polls, we win. A broader, highly engaged electorate brings out a diverse base of voters who ensure party platform priorities gain direct legislative representation. Every single vote cast in these primaries builds the foundation for the main event in November.

Now that the primaries are officially behind us, it’s all about locking arms, staying united, and carrying that energetic momentum straight into the general election! Talk to your friends, your neighbors, and family and GOTV (GET OUT THE VOTE) for the midterms. And remember, vote up and down the entire ballot.

Mary Boggi is chair of Representative District 14. She is a passionate Democrat who has worked on many campaigns, including as manager for Jill Hicks’ current campaign for County Council.

* Voting data is provided by the Delaware Department of Elections