Walmart businessman announces GOP bid for Delaware’s open US Senate seat | The Latest from WDEL News

by Danica Brendon

Walmart Executive Announces Candidacy for Delaware Senate Seat

Eric Hansen, a long-time Walmart executive, has recently launched his campaign to fill the upcoming vacancy in Delaware’s United States Senate seat, which will soon be left by Tom Carper. With over 15 years of experience working in various capacities at Proctor & Gamble and Walmart, Hansen believes that his business background will bring much-needed efficiency and strategic thinking to government.

One of the main points Hansen emphasizes is the need for the government to operate more like a private business. In the business world, companies are constantly seeking ways to become more efficient, often cutting spending by 3% each year. However, Hansen argues that this approach is seldom seen in government, where spending seems to increase without considering improved job performance.

Having lived in Delaware for several years, Hansen has witnessed firsthand the issues plaguing the state’s public school system, where his own children are being educated. He believes that parents should have more flexibility in choosing the best education for their children. “Choice allows parents to put their kids in the school that makes the most sense for them, and in a school that allows their students to thrive. Choice shouldn’t be limited to public schools; we should have options that allow them to send their children to parochial or even private schools,” says Hansen.

While Delaware has a heavy Democrat majority, with a nearly 3:1 ratio compared to Republicans, Hansen remains optimistic about his campaign’s chances. He believes that the issues he is addressing—economy, crime, and education—are concerns shared by people from various political affiliations. Hansen has had numerous conversations with residents from different counties who express a genuine interest in tackling these issues. He believes that the current establishment has failed to make significant progress in these areas and that a fresh perspective is needed.

Hansen joins two other candidates in the race for the U.S. Senate seat. Republican Bill Taylor of Millsboro, who has been actively involved in a lawsuit challenging Delaware’s assault weapons laws, and U.S. Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester are also vying for the position. However, Hansen is confident that his campaign stances and his focus on addressing crucial issues will resonate with voters across party lines.

Delaware’s primaries are not scheduled until September 10, 2024, giving candidates ample time to present their platforms and engage with voters. As the campaign unfolds, it will be interesting to see how Hansen’s business experience translates into a viable political strategy and resonates with the electorate. Regardless of the outcome, his entry into the race demonstrates the growing desire for fresh perspectives and innovative approaches in the realm of politics.

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