Longtime Delaware political mentor, James Soles dies

State flags will be lowered to half-staff in honor of Soles.

Political professor to thousands of students at the University of Delaware, James Soles died this morning.  He’s being remembered by elected officials throughout the state including Governor Jack Markell, who has ordered that state flags be lowered to half staff until after his funeral service.  Markell says, “Jim was a beloved teacher who inspired so many of his students into public service and remained a mentor and friend throughout their careers. He was an esteemed scholar who brought honor to our state and wisdom to public policy discussions around the country.”

Soles was a highly sought after political commentator and spent three decades teaching politics at UD.  He was named the university’s first Alumni Distinguished Professor.  He also served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Delaware Technical and Community College.

Senator Tom Carper (D) got his start in politics by joining Soles’ congressional campaign in 1974, right after Carper got out of the Navy.  Carper says, “Jim Soles gave politics a good name, and the thousands of students whose lives he touched as their professor have gone on to give Delaware a good name throughout this country and around the world. I will always be in his debt.”

Congressman Mike Castle (R) says Soles was respected by everyone involved in government.  “Regardless of their party affiliation, he always had the best interest of his students in mind.  I will deeply miss his friendship, his words of wisdom, and the twinkle in his eye or spark in his voice when he was discussing the things he loved most – his family, students, and politics.”