Mike Simpler files for 14th District seat

Republican Mike Simpler has filed to run for the 14th District representative seat that will be vacated by a retiring Pete Schwartzkopf.

The lifelong Cape resident and current president of the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company said in a press released that he was encouraged to run by Republicans, Democrats and Independents who want an ambassador in Dover focused on local issues and solutions, economic growth and sensible policies. 

“The residents of the 14th District want and deserve representation from someone who will fight for them every single day,” he said. “I’m getting in this race because this district is my home – where I grew up and raised my family. I’m not doing this for a job; I’m doing this because we need a go-getting advocate who listens to our community and will work across the aisle to get things done. There’s a lot to do in Dover.”

He is the only Republican so far to file for the seat. Three Democrats – Kathy McGuiness, Marty Rendon and Claire Snyder-Hall will face off in a Sept. 10 primary.

A Cape High grad, Simpler works at Beebe Healthcare, is a founding member of Rehoboth Beach Sportsplex, and has coached and served on the executive board of Rehoboth Beach Little League. With his son Zachary, Simpler is involved with Special Olympics.

Simpler said his vision for Delaware centers on making the lives of the residents of the 14th District simpler. He said he will fight for economic relief, to provide grant-in-aid funding for nonprofits, to improve emergency services, while also working to protect the environment, the beaches and the Inland Bays. He said he will also continue to advocate for increased access to specialized healthcare and education opportunities, more public transportation and the rehabilitation of infrastructure in Sussex County. 

Simpler lives in Dewey Beach with his wife, Kim, and their blended family that includes two daughters, Emma and Paige; three sons, Quinn, Zachary and Wyatt; and their mini-goldendoodle Isla.