From Chairman Truono’s Desk: Why Delaware Must Run Smarter — Not Smaller

Fellow Delaware Republicans,

The recent election outcomes in New Jersey and Virginia remind us that victory is never guaranteed — but they also confirm something far more important: voters everywhere are hungry for accountability, affordability, and common-sense leadership. Delaware is no exception.

Despite Democrat wins elsewhere, the path forward for us in 2026 is clearer than ever. The stakes have never been higher, and neither has the opportunity. But to seize it, we must commit to one principle:

We must run smarter, not smaller.

Building a Smarter, Stronger Republican Operation

For Delaware to win, we must reshape the way we campaign, communicate, and connect. The old playbook is not enough — and we cannot afford to sit back and hope for different results.

1. A Data-Driven, Community-Focused Strategy

Victory in 2026 means:

• Reaching every voter in every neighborhood

• Using analytics, modeling, and voter-contact technology

• Expanding our field operation at the local level

• Engaging Republicans, independents, and disaffected Democrats who’ve never been asked to join our movement

We win when we meet people where they are — with facts, solutions, and a message rooted in everyday Delaware challenges.

2. A Message That Speaks to Real Delaware Families

Our Party will focus relentlessly on the issues that matter most:

• Cost of living that continues to squeeze working families

• One-party rule that breeds complacency and poor judgment

• A lack of transparency in spending, priorities, and decision-making

Delawareans don’t want political theater — they want balance, competence, and leaders who listen. We will offer them exactly that.

3. Candidates Who Reflect Our Communities

Our future depends on recruiting and empowering candidates who:

• Are grounded in principle

• Reflect the diversity and character of our state

• Are equipped with modern campaign tools

• Stand united on fiscal responsibility, parental rights, and public safety

These candidates will not simply participate in the political process — they will be architects of Delaware’s future.

4. Organizing Every Day — Not Just Election Year

Winning requires year-round action:

• Ballot chasing

• Early vote outreach

• Digital storytelling

• Neighborhood organizing

• Community engagement

• Clear accountability

This work begins now, not six months before Election Day.

HB 255: A Dangerous Democrat Overreach

As we work toward 2026, we are also facing an immediate threat: House Bill 255, a Democrat-driven bill that punishes small businesses, raises costs on families, and weakens Delaware’s competitiveness.

Why HB 255 Hurts Delaware

• Higher prices on groceries, gas, and services

• Fewer good jobs for young Delawareans

• Local businesses struggling or closing

• Reduced competitiveness at a time when companies are already leaving our state

Delaware does not have a revenue crisis — it has a spending crisis. Between FY2021 and FY2025, General Fund spending grew by more than 53% — over $2.4 billion — far outpacing revenue growth. HB 255 does nothing to fix this.

Business Experts Agree: HB 255 Is a Mistake

Opposition comes from:

• Delaware State Chamber of Commerce

• New Castle County Chamber

• Delaware Business Roundtable

• Delaware Society of CPAs

• DelawareBio

• Former members of JFC and Bond Committees

• Former Secretary of Finance Rick Geisenberger

Their message is clear:HB 255 is rushed, shortsighted, and harmful to Delaware’s business climate.

Your Voice Is Needed — Right Now

The House narrowly passed HB 255 with only Democratic votes. It now heads to the Senate.

Every Delawarean should contact their State Senator and say: VOTE NO ON HB 255.

This is our moment to stand up for:

• Job growth

• Fiscal responsibility

• Delaware’s reputation as the nation’s incorporation capital

• Families who cannot afford more economic pressure

Our Mission Is Clear — And Victory in 2026 Begins Today

The Democrats’ wins in other states do not define our future. They highlight the urgency of what we must do:

• Build a smarter operation

• Deliver a message that resonates

• Recruit strong candidates

• Fight harmful policies like HB 255

• Organize nonstop from today forward

Delawareans deserve a government that respects their tax dollars, supports business growth, protects families, and listens to the people it serves.

Together, we can deliver that future.

With resolve and gratitude,

Gene Truono

Chairman, Delaware Republican Party