Her opponent didn't show up. Sarah McBride made her case for Congress anyway at UD debate

Sarah McBride, a Delaware state senator and Democratic nominee for the U.S. House seat, was the only congressional candidate to show up Wednesday night at a University of Delaware debate.

In a discussion with moderator Ralph Begleiter, founding director of the University of Delaware Center for Political Communication, McBride emphasized the importance of making congress “work better for the people” and having leaders who are committed to “rolling up their sleeves, diving into the details and bringing people together” for the greater good.

The Republican nominee, lifelong Delawarean and retired businessman John J. Whalen III, declined to attend.

What did McBride talk about?

Instead of opening remarks, McBride jumped right into discussing her stance on various issues.

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She called the economy “the most important issue in this election,” saying she will work alongside fellow Democrats and Republicans in the U.S. House “on day one” to help the economy work better for all residents across the First State, advocating for student loan relief, investing in affordable housing and better access to quality health and childcare.

McBride has also said she will work to ensure that Congress will work on “cutting unnecessary red tape” with federal government spending, ensuring funds will work more so with the people in mind “and expanding them where necessary and where appropriate.”

McBride also talked about securing reproductive rights and access to care, enacting “structural reform” regarding packing in the U.S. Supreme Court and building a government that keeps the needs – and future – of young people in mind.

“I think there’s no question that if you’re not at the table, then you’re on the menu,” McBride said. “And one of the reasons why we need a diverse range of voices in government is to make sure that we not only have perspectives heard, but to make sure the needs and interests of all people are heard and met – and that includes young people.”

She also discussed international issues, including providing further support for Ukraine, as well as advocating for a ceasefire and “a two-state solution” amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Palestine.

If elected, McBride will become the first trans person to hold federal office.

When asked if her identity has influenced her campaign or policies, McBride said she will remain dedicated to using her platform to fight for important issues, rather than become “a spokesperson for a movement.”

More: State Sen. Sarah McBride and John Whalen to face off for congressional seat in November

“I’m not running to be known for any one aspect of my identity,” McBride said. “I’m running to be Delaware’s member of Congress focused on all of the issues that matter.”

In her closing remarks, McBride explained that, if elected, she will not only continue to prioritize raising the minimum wage, ensuring paid family medical leave and securing further gun safety protections.

“I am incredibly mindful of the responsibility that comes with representing the whole state – all three counties, Democrat, Independents and Republicans, the full diversity,” McBride explained. “That sole member of Congress has to be ready on day one to deliver for Delawareans.”

Why was John J. Whalen not at the debate?

Whalen, whose platform includes expanding national security and lower widespread costs, previously attended the Jewish Federation of Delaware Candidates forum this past September.

Whalen did not respond to a request for comment on the reason behind declining to attend the debate.

What other debates are taking place?

The UD Center for Political Communication and Delaware Public Media also hosted the U.S. Senate debate at 8 p.m. last night.

Only one candidate, Republican nominee and Wilmington businessman Eric Hansen, was in attendance.

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The Center will also be hosting a gubernatorial debate tonight at 6 p.m. EST.

While there will not be a live audience, voters can livestream the debate on the Center for Political Communication website.

All candidates will face one another in the general election, which is scheduled to take place on Nov. 5.

Olivia Montes covers state government and community impact for Delaware Online/The News Journal. Reach her at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Key takeaways from U.S. House debate at the University of Delaware