Step Up for Delaware County: Run for Local Office
Delaware County is growing, changing, and facing important decisions about how we care for our communities, manage public resources, and ensure fairness in our local institutions. One of the most powerful ways residents can shape that future is by stepping forward to run for local office.
This election cycle, Delaware County voters will choose leaders for several critical roles, and we need thoughtful, community-minded Democrats to consider running.
The deadline for candidates to file for the 2026 elections is Wednesday, February 4 at 4:00 pm.
Open Offices That Shape Our Daily Lives
County Commissioner
County Commissioners set priorities that impact nearly every resident, from infrastructure and economic development to public health, social services, and responsible growth. Commissioners decide how taxpayer dollars are spent, and help guide the long-term vision of the county. This role is ideal for people who care deeply about smart growth, transparency, and community well-being.
County Auditor
The Auditor is the county’s chief financial watchdog, responsible for ensuring accountability, transparency, and fairness in how public funds are managed. This office plays a vital role in protecting taxpayers and maintaining trust in county government.
Judge – Probate/Juvenile Division
This court touches families at some of the most sensitive moments of their lives – handling cases involving children, guardianships, adoptions, mental health, and estates. Judges in this division must balance compassion with the law, always keeping the best interests of children and vulnerable residents at the center of their decisions.
Judge – General Division
General Division judges oversee major civil and criminal cases that directly affect public safety, workers’ rights, and access to justice. These positions require fairness, integrity, and a deep respect for the rule of law. The people who serve in these roles help define what justice looks like in Delaware County.
Central Committee
Delaware County now has 180 precincts! Each one can have a Democratic representative elected to our Central Committee. Central Committee members help inform and get out the vote for all Democratic candidates.
In this role, you can connect with all the Democrats in your precinct and encourage them to vote! Serving as a precinct captain is a great opportunity to help develop community, build our party’s infrastructure, and increase Democratic voter turnout! Precinct captain is an elected position, and the easiest one for a Democrat to win in Delaware County! You can declare your candidacy using Form 2M. Only your signature is required!
You Don’t Have to Be a “Career Politician”
Many people who make excellent local officials never imagined themselves running for office. What matters most is a commitment to fairness, accountability, and service. If you care about Delaware County and want to be part of the solution, you already have the most important qualification.
Local offices have a direct, tangible impact. Decisions made at the county level shape schools, courts, roads, healthcare access, and economic opportunity – often far more than what happens in Washington.
Now Is the Time
Strong democracy depends on people stepping up, not sitting out. If you’ve ever thought, “Someone should do something about this,” that someone could be you.
If you’re interested in learning more about running for one of these offices, connecting with others who have done it before, or exploring training and resources, now is the perfect time to start the conversation.
Delaware County deserves leaders who are invested in its people, its future, and its values. Consider running, and help shape the county we all call home.
