Delaware Senate Candidates Clash on Healthcare and Foreign Policy
Democratic U.S. Sen. Chris Coons and Republican challenger Dr. Mike Katz clashed over healthcare, Social Security, and U.S. support for Israel during a candidate forum in Wilmington on Thursday, the first day of early voting in Delaware, Spotlight Delaware reported. The hourlong forum at the Hotel du Pont was hosted by the Rotary Club of Wilmington and moderated by Spotlight Delaware Editor-in-Chief Jacob Owens, offering voters a side-by-side comparison 12 days before the Nov. 3 general election.
Katz and Coons Clash over Affordable Care Act
Healthcare costs and the structure of the federal insurance system drew the sharpest policy contrasts of the evening. Katz called the healthcare system bloated and broken, characterizing the Affordable Care Act as a failed policy despite acknowledging its protections for pre-existing conditions. Coons defended the law and pointed to the Congressional Budget Office projection that the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025 will increase the number of uninsured Americans nationwide by 10 million by 2034 as tax credits and subsidies expire.
Diverging Stances on Social Security and Campaign Finance
On Social Security, Coons said he co-sponsors legislation to lift the payroll tax wage cap currently set at $184,500 and supports joining a bipartisan commission. Katz said he would first diagnose the program’s problems before proposing a fix while stating he does not necessarily support raising the retirement age. Katz repeatedly emphasized his independence from special interests, while Coons faced questions regarding campaign donations from corporate and lobbying entities, including $27,500 from data company Palantir and over $500,000 from Israeli-linked lobbyists.
Foreign Policy Disagreements Over Israel and Iran
The candidates split on military aid to Israel, with Coons stating he would reconsider support if President Benjamin Netanyahu moves to annex the West Bank or ignores humanitarian needs in Gaza, and Katz arguing that U.S. taxpayers should not fund arms for wealthy allies. On Iran, Coons attributed rising gas prices to the war launched by Donald Trump, whereas Katz blamed decades of failed leadership and criticized Coons for supporting the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Delaware Senate Race
How did Dr. Mike Katz secure the Republican nomination?
Katz beat Shulli in the primary with about 77% of the vote.
When do Delaware voters head to the polls for the general election?
The general election takes place on Nov. 3, with early voting having opened on Thursday ahead of the matchup.
How long has Senator Chris Coons held his seat?
Coons is seeking his fourth term in office, continuing a long history in which Delaware has not elected a Republican to the U.S. Senate since William “Bill” Roth left office in 2001.
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