David Redlawsk

David Redlawsk earned a bachelor's degree from Duke University, a graduate degree from Vanderbilt University, and a Ph.D. from Rutgers University. Redlawsk's career experience includes working as an educator.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

We’re facing unprecedented challenges to affordability, education, health care, and even democracy itself in America. This assault has a direct impact on the daily lives of all of us in Newark, DE and the 23rd RD. As a professor and 10-year Chair of the Department of Political Science and International Relations at University of Delaware, I've been teaching students about democracy, elections, and how to make a difference in their local communities. This has been the core focus of my entire academic career. I've also run for office previously and won against the odds - twice. And before that I was a technology manager in non-profit and higher education. The whole of my life’s experience gives me the knowledge and skills to do the job that needs to be done today. It has taught me to listen, to learn, and to value multiple perspectives. We’re in tough times right now and it is easy to despair. When I work with my students, I worry about their futures. And yet, I feel hope as they focus on developing the tools, knowledge, and passion to make things better. I teach them, and I also learn from them. Their desire to make things better inspires me to do my part as well. I want to take that hope for a better future to Dover, and be part of making it happen.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Addressing the Crisis of Affordability. Housing, utilities, food, education, gas prices are all going through the roof. Utilities have been a particular problem with a 22.4% increase in Newark electric rates coming. And the spectre of data centers will only make it worse. We must always make sure the safety net stays intact. And we must expect those who are blessed with the most do their share through an income tax system that reduces taxes for those who are just trying to get by and increases rates on those who can do more.Education is the lifeblood of any community. Every child has the right to receive a strong public school education. We need to support our educators, ensure equitable funding, and fund necessary wrap-around services such as mental health support and free student meals. Students cannot do well if they are hungry, and don't have the needed supports. We must also make sure real opportunity exists for further education for those who want it, whether at our trade schools, DelTech, or at our four-year institutions.Improving Healthcare Accessibility. Affordable and effective healthcare is a right. We must make quality care, including mental health care, accessible and affordable for all. Women should not face more challenges in finding doctors who take their concerns seriously than do men. Reproductive care is healthcare, and reproductive rights must be guaranteed by the Delaware Constitution.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I'm passionate about addressing the affordability crisis, and the challenges to education and healthcare we’re facing, as well as a range of other issues. These include gun safety, workers’ rights to organize, supporting our immigrant communities, and of course, protecting our democracy.

I also think we need to take a long view to ensure Newark and the 23rd RD's future. This requires a true partnership between the city, the University of Delaware, and the state to build a vibrant, livable, and sustainable city as we enter the middle of the 21st century. Given my experience, I'm uniquely positioned to facilitate this.