New Castle County Executive Chris Coons will challenge Congressman Mike Castle for the U.S. Senate.
Coons, a Democrat, announced Wednesday that he formally has filed to run for the office. He said he will formally launch his campaign with a traditional three-county tour later in February.
"People here in Delaware are hurting, and Congress has failed to deliver the change we voted for in 2008," he said in a statement. "I’m running to bring new energy and a new approach to Washington."
Coons has held the counties top job since 2004 and has said he will continue on in that capacity through November's election, resigning only if he wins. Prior to 2004, he served as New Castle County Council President.
"I restored integrity and confidence in county government," Coons said. "I cut wasteful spending, helped businesses to create jobs, and made our communities safer. I want to take my strong track record of getting real results to the U.S. Senate because the people of Delaware deserve leadership that represents their values."
Coons, 46, grew up in Hockessin, and now lives in Wilmington with his wife, Annie, and their three children, Michael, Jack, and Maggie. He has degrees from Amherst College, Yale Law School, and Yale Divinity School.
Coons previously worked as in-house counsel for W.L. Gore & Associates. He has also worked with several non-profits, including the National Coalition for the Homeless, the education-oriented “I Have a Dream” Foundation, and the South African Council of Churches.
