Delaware’s Primary Election Timeline Set for Change
Dover, Del. — Delaware’s primary elections may see significant changes following the passage of House Bill 65 (HB 65) in the State House of Representatives, which received overwhelming support with 39 votes in favor. The legislation proposes moving the primary elections for statewide, county, and municipal offices to the fourth Tuesday in April, aligning them with presidential primaries in election years.
This initiative aims to streamline the electoral calendar and enhance voter turnout by consolidating important election dates. Along with the date adjustment, the bill revises several crucial deadlines related to the election process. Notably, it modifies the timeline for submitting and withdrawing candidacy notifications, providing notice of filing fees, and completing background checks for candidates.
Additionally, the legislation updates the “closed” voter registration period, which prevents voters from changing their political affiliation. This period will be set at 60 days prior to the primary, matching the existing restriction for presidential primaries under Delaware law.
The bill saw no opposition from the majority, with only Democrat Claire Snyder-Hall of Rehoboth Beach voting against it. Meanwhile, Stell Parker Selby of Milton remained absent from the General Assembly and did not cast a vote.
The new regulations will come into effect for the 2028 election cycle, allowing sufficient time for political parties, candidates, and voters to adapt to the changes. The bill now moves to the State Senate for further consideration, marking a pivotal shift in Delaware’s electoral landscape.
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