Reaction to Delaware Governor’s State of the State

The feedback on Delaware Governor Jack Markell’s State of the State address, Thursday, was largely positive, from both Democrats and Republicans.

“I thought Gov. Markell’s speech was really right on. It was right on target for what we need to be doing today. He talked about the need to maintain and create jobs. He talked about the importance of the educational system and the importance of businesses to our economy. So I think those were themes that we could really appreciate and support,” Senate Majority Whip Margaret Rose Henry said. 

“I thought he did a wonderful job and he put things in perspective,” said Sen. Joe Booth (R-Georgetown). “He did have the resolve to start taking a look at some of the tough issues that our state faces and trying to address them collectively with both sides of the aisle.”

Tough issues including Medicaid, a monster expense that encompasses 40 percent of the state’s population, according to Markell’s speech.

“I thought it was a very accurate and honest account of where we stand in the state,” said Rep. John Kowalko (D-Newark South), who, along with other state lawmakers, wanted some more details. “I don’t think it would be appropriate for me to expect the Governor to say things that I want him to say. I’d rather see him say things and give me an idea of his attitude and what direction he’s going in.”

“It was a good speech… But it’s kind of like the foreword of a book. I mean, you know, it’s nice, it’s a great opportunity for him, but a lot of the details will follow. But that said, we’ll look forward to working with the Governor on those details and some of the initiatives to try to create an environment where businesses can thrive in Delaware, large and small businesses, and where families are happy to live and happy to move to,” said House Minority Leader Greg Lavelle. “The budget will really be the devil in some of the details and see what the Governor’s planning on some of these initiatives.”