Schwartzkopf announces retirement from office
A Starboard party celebrating Pete Schwartzkopf’s political career July 24 was full of fun and revelry, but also confirmed a long-standing rumor that Schwartzkopf does not plan to run for re-election when his term expires in 2024.
“That is the game plan,” Schwartzkopf said as he made his way north July 25 to clean out his office for new Speaker of the House Rep. Valerie Longhurst, D-Bear.
Speculation about whether Schwartzkopf would run for re-election in 2024 began even before he stepped down as speaker of the House at the end of this year’s legislative session June 30, after more than a decade in top leadership. Schwartzkopf, who was first elected representative of the 14th District in 2002, said he intends to finish his term, but does not plan to run for re-election.
“I’ll fill out the rest of my term. I have an obligation to the 14th District,” he said.
He also said there is no heir apparent for his seat.
“I think it’ll be a contested primary on our side. There are a couple of people interested in running,” he said, without offering up any names.
Schwartzkopf said he will not take sides in the primary, but will help whoever wins it.
The Dewey Beach celebration thrown by Starboard owner Steve “Monty” Montgomery included Gov. John Carney, Lt. Gov. Bethany Hall-Long, Schwartzkopf’s wife Carol, their children and grandchildren, a throng of supporters and plenty of orange crushes.
“When I came around the corner and saw all those people, it was humbling,” said Schwartzkopf. “Sussex County is special. We’ve done great things here.”
Some people brought gifts. There was a poster for people to sign and leave well wishes for the man who has been a fixture in Delaware politics since George W. Bush was president.
“In our democracy, a leader can’t lose sight of the big picture,” Carney said. “Pete never has lost sight of his own district. His shoes are unfillable. There will never be anybody like Pete.”
Schwartzkopf thanked everyone for their support over the years.
“I’ve had three jobs that I’ve loved: lifeguard, state trooper and state representative. In all three, I got to serve people,” he said.
