As the November 5, 2024, election approaches, Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester is poised to make history in Delaware's U.S. Senate race. If successful, she would become the first woman and the first Black person to represent Delaware in the Senate [6ecc9326]. Blunt Rochester, a Democrat, faces off against Republican Eric Hansen and independent candidate Michael Katz [6ecc9326].
Having served four terms in the House of Representatives, Blunt Rochester has established herself as a prominent figure in Delaware politics, raising over $9 million for her campaign [6ecc9326]. In contrast, her opponent Hansen, a political newcomer with a background in retail, has raised just over $1 million [6ecc9326]. The Senate seat is currently vacant due to the retirement of Tom Carper, who has publicly endorsed Blunt Rochester [6ecc9326].
Throughout her tenure, Blunt Rochester has sponsored 90 bills, with one successfully becoming law, showcasing her legislative experience [6ecc9326]. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on election day, and the outcome of this race could significantly impact the representation of women and people of color in Congress [6ecc9326]. Meanwhile, Sarah McBride's recent victory in the Democratic primary for Delaware's only U.S. House seat adds to the momentum for increased representation, as she aims to become the first openly transgender member of Congress [847272b4]. Both candidates are seen as trailblazers in their respective races, highlighting a transformative moment in Delaware's political landscape [6ecc9326][847272b4].