This week’s message from the Delaware GOP emphasized the need to address Wilmington’s violence issues, in light of ABC’s announcement that a new TV drama called “Murder Town” would set in the First State’s largest city.
State party Chairman Charlie Copeland lamented not only ABC’s announcement but also the lack of outrage from Mayor Dennis Williams.
“It’s time for something new in Wilmington. In the last 5 years, there have been 106 homicides in Wilmington, and the city’s economy continues to sink. Add to this lagging public education, and a continued decline in the labor participation rate across Delaware, and it doesn’t paint a pretty picture," said Copeland.
Copeland added that while it would be easy for him to blame the state’s Democrats for Wilmington’s misfortunes, he says that bipartisan efforts will be needed to make positive change in the city.
Full text of weekly GOP message:
"I’m Charlie Copeland, Chairman of the Delaware Republican Party.
"This week, ABC announced that it would launch a tv series set in Wilmington called “Murder Town”. Following this, the News Journal dedicated its entire front page to the words “save our city”.
While many rightfully worry about the city's reputation, there was little talk from Mayor Williams as to why this is happening. Rather, the Mayor commented to a News Journal reporter, “I hope they find somebody good looking to play me.
The reality is that the News Journal is right. Wilmington does need to be saved, and the old adage “nothing changes if nothing changes” comes to mind.
It’s time for something new in Wilmington.
In the last 5 years, there have been 106 homicides in Wilmington, and the city’s economy continues to sink. Add to this lagging public education, and a continued decline in the labor participation rate across Delaware, and it doesn’t paint a pretty picture.
It would be easy for me to talk with you today about the perils of one party control of state government. It would be easy for me to stand here today and lay blame on a host of Democratic Party leaders who have abandoned the city and its families over the last 40 years, but I’m not going to. If we are going to save the City of Wilmington then we need to work together in a bi-partisan manner.
I, and all Republicans across the state, extend a hand to the leaders of Wilmington to sit down and talk about real reform and real change to improve the lives of City residents.
"The time for press conferences, rallies and special commissions is long over. It’s time for real reform in the city.
Thank you.
