REPUBLICAN EXCERPT FROM THE SPOTLIGHT DELAWARE LEGISLATIVE SUMMIT

January 8, 2026

Spotlight Delaware held its annual legislative summit on Wednesday, hosted by Delaware State University in Dover. 

In anticipation of lawmakers returning to resume work at the State Capitol next week, the event featured elected leaders and other experts in guided discussions exploring a wide range of public policy issues. 

BELOW ARE SOME EXCERPTS AND VIDEO FROM THE SESSIONS.

MORE EXCERPTS AND VIDEOS ARE AVAILABLE IN THE HOUSE REPUBLICAN NEWSLETTER - CLICK HERE

During the Spotlight Delaware Legislative Summit held January 7 on the campus of Delaware State University in Dover, House Minority Whip, State Rep. Jeff Spiegelman, and Senate Minority Whip, State Sen. Brian Pettyjohn, were part of a panel of four legislative leaders discussing issues ranging from reassessment to income tax rates.

In the video link below, both men respond to the following question posed by the moderator of the guided discussion: "As Republicans, how do you navigate a Democratic trifecta and a Democratic super-majority in the General Assembly, and how do you work to hold onto any semblance of a Republican or conservative agenda?"

Democrats outnumber Republicans in the House, 27 to 14, and in the Senate hold a 15 to 6 advantage.

To view the video of their responses, click HERE

January 8th

Comments from Sen. Brian Pettyjohn:

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to participate in two panel discussions at the Spotlight Delaware Legislative Summit alongside my colleagues in the General Assembly.

It was valuable to step back and discuss not only what has been achieved, but how collaboration and open dialogue continue to shape effective policymaking in Dover. These discussions reinforced the importance of bringing different perspectives to the table while keeping the needs of Delaware families, workers, and small businesses front and center.

With legislative session beginning next week, the timing of this summit could not have been more appropriate. I look forward to building on the progress we’ve made, continuing to work with my colleagues, and staying focused on thoughtful, solutions-oriented leadership as we return to Legislative Hall.