DELAWARE- Members of Delaware’s political leadership are responding to the resignation of Rep. Stell Parker Selby, who stepped down Monday citing ongoing health challenges that began after a serious medical emergency in the winter.
CoastTV approached Governor Matt Meyer about Parker Selby's absence most recently on June 20. Meyer had not spoken with the representative and continued to wish her good health. On June 24, Meyer released a statement on Parker Selby's resignation referring to the two official's familiarity in the classroom.
"Stell Parker Selby has been a public servant her entire life. A proud Delawarean with deep roots in Sussex County, and a former teacher like myself, Stell brought compassion, wisdom, and integrity to the classroom, Sussex County Council, and finally to the State House of Representatives," said Meyer. "Stell reminds us all what true public service means through her passionate advocacy for civil rights, education, healthcare, and the well-being of Delaware families."
Members of the Delaware House Republican Caucus expressed support and understanding Monday regarding Parker Selby's resignation saying,
"I recognize that her decision to resign was not an easy one," said State House Minority Leader Tim Dukes. "I commend her for her honesty in assessing her situation and for prioritizing the needs of her constituents above her desire to continue in public service. I believe she made the right choice and one that aligns with her legacy as a dedicated community leader."
Dukes called for Parker Selby to resign in an exclusive interview with CoastTV June 11. State House Minority Whip Jeff Spiegelman shared a similar sentiment, saying Parker Selby did what was best for District 20.
“Stell served her district with dedication throughout her first term," said Spiegelman. "By choosing to step down, she can focus fully on her recovery without the added responsibilities of office, while giving the people of the 20th District an opportunity to select a candidate who will be able to fully represent their interests."
District 36 Rep. Bryan Shupe told CoastTV constituents began turning to him within the last month from District 20 as a result of Parker Selby's absence.
"In my conversations with people it wasn't 'what exactly happened?' or 'how well is she doing?' although they were concerned for her and for her family. They wanted to know who do I reach out to and who can I go to to help me with the issues that I have?" said Shupe. "It will be great to see there will be specifically a person in that seat who people can go to, call, show up at their office and get any of their answers."
Next, House Democrats said the seat will be filled with a special election. The Speaker of the House, Melissa Minor-Brown, can issue a writ of election within 10 days. If Minor-Brown does not issue the writ of election, the action falls on the governor after the legislative session ends on June 30.