governor

John Carney

John Carney (D) is the 74th governor of the state of Delaware, elected to this position in 2016. Carney also served as lieutenant governor from 2001-2009 and as U.S. representative from Delaware’s at-large congressional district from 2011-2017.

Associations:

Planned Parenthood

Coalition of Black Trade Unionists

International Longshoremen's Association

The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations

party

Democrat

jurisdiction

State of Delaware

service dates

January 17, 2017 - Present

gender

Male

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Personal Moments

1956

John Carney is born in Wilmington, Delaware

Carney, second of nine children, is born to parents Ann Marie and Charles Carney.

1978

Carney graduates from college

John Carney received his Bachelor’s degree from Dartmouth College, where he also played on the football team.

1987

Carney receives his Master’s degree

Carney graduated from the University of Delaware, where he also coached football, with a Master’s in Public Administration.

1993

Carney marries Tracey Quillen

John Carney married Tracey Quillen (now Carney) on June 5, 1993, who is now the First Lady of Delaware.

2015

Son’s Legal Trouble

One of Carney’s son’s, Sam, was one of the defendants of two separate lawsuits that were filed by the parents of an individual who died during a hazing incident in 2014. Sam was not charged and the case was settled in 2017.

Campaign History

2000

Carney elected Lieutenant Governor

Alongside Governor Ruth Ann Minner, John Carney was elected Lieutenant Governor of Delaware in 2000.

2008

Carney attempts a run for the governorship

In a tight primary race, Carney lost the Democratic nomination for governor to state treasurer Jack Markell.

2010

Carney runs for U.S. House of Representatives

John Carney launched a successful campaign to become Delaware’s U.S. Representative, where he would serve for three terms.

2016

Carney becomes Delaware’s governor

Running unopposed in his primary, Carney, the Democratic nominee, defeated his Republican opponent to become the 74th governor of Delaware.

2022

Carney Vetoes Marijuana Legalization Bill

Carney recently vetoed a bill that sought to legalize possession of marijuana up to one ounce by adults for personal use.

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Position on Key Issues

Education

Carney has placed education reform policy at the forefront of his legislative goals. In 2021, Carney signed into law increased funding for an initiative, which would provide school districts with extra funding for English language teachers for students learning English as a second language, as well as additional funding for disadvantaged school districts.

Voting Rights

In response to partisan redistricting efforts, Carney has prioritized voting rights legislation throughout his tenure as governor. Carney is currently pushing for legislation to allow same-day voter registration, as well as universal absentee voting for anyone who wants this option.

Economy

Carney attempted to spur economic growth within his state with support for prospective entrepreneurs. He redirected resources to small businesses through the new small business office in the Department of State, and made it easier for small businesses to be granted credit and capital.

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Key Issues:

Education

Voting Rights

Economy