WILMINGTON — Wilmington native Eugene Young, Jr. is no longer in the race for the First State’s only congressional seat despite endorsement from Governor John Carney.
“This decision comes after careful consideration and deep reflection,” the Delaware State Housing Authority’s former director announced on Wednesday.
Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester, (D-Del.) currently occupies that seat, but will vacate it as she is in the running for Senator Tom Carper’s seat along with Republican Eric Hansen and Independent Michael “Dr. Mike” Katz.
Young had served as Delaware State Housing Authority Director after he narrowly lost the democratic primary in the Wilmington mayoral race in 2016. But he stepped down from his role in the Carney administration back in February to focus on his campaign.
In suspending his campaign, Young leaves the field with Delaware state Senator Sarah McBride. She remains the highest-elected transgender person in the country.
Delaware State Treasurer Colleen Davis also ran for congress, but had dropped out of the race to focus on her family and health.
The deadline to file for the congressional seat’s candidacy is July 9.
Young said he will continue to work to improve Delaware and thanked his family which includes his wife and two children, supporters, donors and volunteers for their “trust and investment. . . and support on this journey.”
In his announcement via social media, he added, “Although I am suspending my 2024 run for Congress, my commitment to the state of Delaware remains unwavering. I will continue to advocate for policies and legislation that support everyday Delawareans.”
Young had $243,169.38 cash on hand in his campaign fund, Friends of Eugene Young, according to current campaign finance reports issued at the end of March. He raised $400,000 in the last quarter.
McBride’s campaign has $1.2 million in cash on hand at the end of the first quarter of 2024, according to finance documents. She has also touted that her campaign raised more than $2.14 million, setting a record for the most money raised by any candidate for an open congressional seat in state history.
