Republican gubernatorial candidate for Delaware, Mike Ramone, expressed to Fox News Digital his determination to challenge what he describes as one-party dominance in President Biden’s home state.
Serving as the minority leader in the state House, Ramone aims to turn the governor’s office red for the first time in over 30 years this November.
“Delaware has been under the control of a single party for 32 years. I am here to offer Delaware a choice,” Ramone stated. “Balance fosters discussion, and discussion leads to thorough vetting, which helps prevent unintended outcomes… The far-right and far-left will both mobilize voters. However, I believe that many from the far-left might also feel that improvements are necessary in Delaware.”
Ramone contended that Democratic leadership has contributed to Delaware becoming one of the least favorable states in terms of education, healthcare, safety, traffic, and business environment.
He pointed out that Delaware is the only state to have reported negative GDP.
“We need to conduct line-item reviews of every single expenditure because we’re managing taxpayers’ money, not our own. Ronald Reagan’s question holds true: ‘Are you better off today than you were then?’ If people believe they are better off, a Republican victory is unlikely,” Ramone said. “However, if they are weary of political drama and desire a leader who leads proactively while also supporting from the background, if they wish to advance technology and job growth in sectors like fintech and pharmaceuticals, reminiscent of Pete DuPont’s era when he established our state as the corporate capital of the world, then they will vote for Mike Ramone. They will choose a business leader.”
With over 40 years in the corporate sector, Ramone believes Delaware voters should prioritize “management style” in their choice of leaders.
KAMALA HARRIS EYES GOVERNORS FROM BATTLEGROUND STATES AS POSSIBLE VP PICKS
Mike Ramone has won eight elections in a state House district dominated by Democrat voters. (Mike Ramone Campaign )
“The current management of our state is dysfunctional. We have one of the highest funded yet lowest performing education systems. Our healthcare is in disarray,” he stated. “I refuse to participate in spreading hatred, negativity, or distorting facts… I believe there are numerous areas where we can improve. We must remain focused and create a robust vision.”
Recent voter registration data shows that Democrats significantly outnumber Republicans in Delaware, nearly two to one. Additionally, the state boasts about 16,600 more independent voters than registered Republicans, with Democrats controlling nine statewide offices. Ramone’s campaign coincides with a pivotal national moment as Biden vacates the presidential race.
“I hold respect for Joe Biden. As a Republican, I acknowledge that he’s the first Delawarean to become president, which is extraordinary,” Ramone commented. “Nevertheless, the leadership style observed during his recent terms in office does not reflect what Delaware represents.”
Mike Ramone stated Delaware has one of the highest funded yet lowest performing education systems in the nation. (Mike Ramone Campaign )
Ramone, who ventured into business at 20 by taking an $8,000 loan to launch his first flower shop, is committed to rebuilding the state with a focus on “fiscal responsibility.”
He noted that Delaware lost its three major industries – credit cards, chemicals, and vehicles – when significant manufacturers, such as DuPont and MBNA, shuttered their operations.
Ramone asserted that the state has the potential to transform into a fintech hub with initiatives like those seen in Silicon Valley, promoting jobs that offer better wages, instead of what he described as “$15 Amazon jobs.”
He termed education in Delaware a “catastrophe,” maintaining that much of the funding is consumed by administrative expenses across its 19 school districts and the department of education instead of benefiting students in the classroom.
First elected 16 years ago, Ramone has successfully campaigned in a district where registered Democrats outnumber the population of registered Republicans.
DEMOCRAT GOVERNORS REEL FROM BIDEN’S PUTIN-ZELENSKYY GAFFE, IMPLICATIONS FOR US LEADERSHIP ON WORLD STAGE
Mike Ramone is campaigning as a Republican gubernatorial candidate in Delaware. (Mike Ramone Campaign )
“My belief is straightforward. My constituency has over 8,000 Democrats,” Ramone noted. “There are approximately 5,000 Republicans and around 5,200 independents. I’m the only elected official fortunate enough to be reelected eight times in Delaware, representing the third party, not the second. I was in the minority minority. With more independents than Republicans, I feel equipped to nurture relationships. I have a strong understanding of what Delawareans value. Our state is rich with individuals who are fiscally prudent, generally financially conservative, and socially moderate to liberal. In simpler terms, let people be, while ensuring taxes aren’t burdensome and government isn’t overly intrusive.”
As a father and grandfather, Ramone aims to make Delaware a state where younger generations can afford to thrive, rather than feeling compelled to relocate.
The last Republican to serve as governor was Mike Castle from 1985 to 1993.
Despite the backdrop of a presidential election year, Ramone maintains that his qualifications and business insights will lead him to victory.
“When I campaigned in my district, my signs were placed alongside those of Joe Biden and Donald Trump, as well as in yards lacking any signs. Delaware is small enough that I believe national political rhetoric may influence turnout, but I don’t think it will significantly impact me either way,” Ramone stated.
Mike Ramone vowed to create a Delaware where his grandchildren can prosper. (Mike Ramone Campaign)
Ramone argued that any support for former President Trump in Kent and Sussex counties would be balanced out in New Castle County, where a larger number of Democrats would be motivated to vote against Trump.
“It’s almost revenue neutral. I believe it’ll all balance out. My main focus is on local issues, not national ones. I’ll concentrate on my community, my state, and all three of our great counties,” Ramone remarked. “Campaigns often drown in a barrage of attacks that distract from why they should be elected. My priority is making clear my purpose and how I can benefit the citizens, striving to enhance the quality of life in Delaware.”
In Delaware, the governorship is term-limited, preventing current Democratic Gov. John Carney from seeking re-election this year.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
Ramone will need to navigate through the Republican primary set for September 10.
Jerry Price, a former NYPD officer, declared his Republican candidacy for Delaware governor in December, while Ramone entered the race in May along with another GOP contender, Bobby Williamson, who recently announced his entry. On the Democratic side, current Lt. Gov. Bethany Hall-Long and New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer are vying for their party’s gubernatorial nomination.
The winners from each party will clash in the general election on November 5.
