Senate Republican Whip Brian Pettyjohn (R-Georgetown)
The Delaware State Senate missed a critical opportunity to strengthen transparency, accountability, and bipartisanship when the Democrat majority voted down amendments to the Senate rules proposed by Republicans. These amendments were designed to promote good governance and transparency, ensuring fairness and strengthening public trust. The Democrats’ opposition to these measures is a setback for these principles and the constituents we serve.
Senate Amendment 1 would have required recorded votes in committee meetings on whether to advance or table legislation. Recorded votes are a cornerstone of accountability, allowing constituents to see where their representatives stand on critical issues. Without a recorded vote, decisions can be made behind closed doors, undermining public trust and fostering suspicion. This amendment aimed to make the process more open and transparent, similar to the rules already followed by the Delaware House of Representatives.
The second amendment proposed that gubernatorial nominees first be reviewed by the standing committee with jurisdiction over the relevant state agency before being considered by the Executive Committee. For example, the Secretary of Education nominee should be vetted by the Senate Education Committee. This reform would have relied on subject-matter expertise to strengthen the vetting process and ensure thorough review of nominees.
The third guaranteed every person at least two minutes to provide public testimony during committee hearings. Public testimony is a vital avenue for Delawareans to share their opinions on laws that directly impact their lives. This simple change would have ensured Delawareans have ample time to voice their opinions, unlike now where comments are often limited to one minute or less. In an era of eroding trust in government, guaranteeing a brief opportunity to speak would have sent a powerful message: The People’s voices matter.
Senate Amendment 4 sought to prevent legislation from being rushed through without adequate consideration. Prohibiting the Senate from voting on bills the same day they are released from committee would have given lawmakers and the public more time to thoroughly review legislation and allowed additional opportunity for public comment before a full Senate vote.
The final two amendments proposed practical improvements: assigning Senate floor seating based on district numbers rather than party affiliation, repositioning the Senate Chamber’s carpet to the center of the room, and limiting the number of bills senators can introduce each year to streamline the legislative process. These changes aim to foster unity and help legislators concentrate on the most pressing issues.
These proposed reforms were not partisan ploys but steps toward a better, more accountable government. By rejecting them, Senate Democrats prioritized expedience over excellence. Delawareans deserve a legislature that values transparency, public input, and deliberative decision-making. Though these amendments were defeated, the conversation is far from over. I urge my colleagues to reconsider these reforms and commit to building a government that truly serves the people.