Where Mike stands
Issues
- Protecting Corporate Franchise Revenue
- Maintaining Delaware’s Creditworthiness
- Serving as an Independent Check on Delaware Government
- Demanding Financial Transparency
- Ensuring Program Accountability
- Safeguarding Delaware Economic and Financial Advisory Council's (DEFAC) Independence
- Elevating Economic Competitiveness
- Maximizing Investment Returns
- Reining in State Spending
Protecting Corporate Franchise Revenue
The issue
Delaware’s corporate franchise system is a major economic asset and source of state revenue, but its stability cannot be taken for granted.
Campaign message
“I’m the only candidate with deep experience in both the public and private sectors. I’ve built businesses, created jobs, and managed budgets through good times and bad. My experience comes from working in our communities—not from an office or academic institution. I don’t just serve Delawareans; I’m one of them.”
Maintaining Delaware’s Creditworthiness
The issue
Delaware’s ability to borrow at favorable rates depends on sound fiscal management and responsible debt policies.
Campaign message
“A top credit rating isn’t a political trophy. It helps keep borrowing costs low for Delaware taxpayers and makes our state more attractive to businesses. Delaware needs a Treasurer who puts fiscal responsibility ahead of political agendas.”
Serving as an Independent Check on Delaware Government
The issue
One-party control can reduce the independence of financial oversight.
Campaign message
“The State Treasurer should be the taxpayers’ independent watchdog—not the Governor’s accountant. I don’t owe the political establishment anything. My responsibility is to you, Delaware’s taxpayers.”
Demanding Financial Transparency
The issue
Public confidence suffers when spending decisions lack transparency or leaders avoid difficult questions.
Campaign message
“Taxpayers have a right to know where their money goes and what they receive in return. Leaders should answer tough questions, not silence critics. If I make a decision, I will defend it. If I’m wrong, I will admit it and change course. I will hold regular news conferences and public forums to keep Delawareans informed. That’s what you deserve from your elected officials.”
Ensuring Program Accountability
The issue
Government funding alone does not guarantee that a program is solving the problem it was designed to address.
Campaign message
“Funding a program is not the same as solving a problem. We must put taxpayers first and ensure programs deliver results. I will work to protect Delaware EARNS, DE 529, and DE ABLE from unnecessary political interference and ensure taxpayer funds are managed responsibly.”
Safeguarding Delaware Economic and Financial Advisory Council's (DEFAC) Independence
The issue
Political interference can undermine the independence and credibility of Delaware’s revenue forecasting.
Campaign message
“You don’t build a household budget on money you hope to earn, and government shouldn’t either. As a member of DEFAC, I will protect its independence, challenge assumptions when necessary, and clearly communicate the accuracy of its forecasts to the public.”
Elevating Economic Competitiveness
The issue
Taxes and regulations affect Delaware’s ability to attract and retain businesses, families, and retirees.
Campaign message
“The Treasurer must protect Delaware’s revenue base for the next 20 years. We need a competitive tax structure that encourages businesses to grow here. Having built businesses and created local jobs, I bring practical economic experience to that challenge.”
Maximizing Investment Returns
The issue
Delaware’s roughly $8 billion investment portfolio requires careful fiduciary oversight to maximize returns while protecting taxpayers.
Campaign message
“When billions of taxpayer dollars are invested, every fraction of a percent matters. I will maintain a disciplined balance among safety, liquidity, and return without chasing unnecessary risk. I will also conduct a comprehensive review of the office’s previous eight years to ensure public investments are managed responsibly and transparently.”
Reining in State Spending
The issue
Delaware’s state spending needs greater scrutiny, efficiency, and use of modern technology.
Campaign message
“The Treasurer doesn’t write the state budget, but the office must be a strong voice for financial accountability. As House Minority Leader, my guiding principle was getting taxpayers the most ‘bang for their buck.’ As Treasurer, I will serve as an independent watchdog for Delaware taxpayers, free from the partisan politics that have hampered our state.”
Delaware, Not Politics.
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