Rep. Mike Smith to lead Delaware State Chamber of Commerce

Delaware State Representative Mike Smith (R-Pike Creek) has announced that he will not seek reelection in 2028. Smith, who was recently named the next president of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce, stated the decision to transition to the private sector is a commitment to himself and his family after a decade in office.

Smith, a rising figure in the Delaware Republican Party and the last incumbent Republican lawmaker from New Castle County, noted that the makeup of the General Assembly has changed significantly during his tenure. He expressed concerns regarding the influence of outside political action committee spending on the legislative body.

His appointment to lead the state's most influential business advocacy organization has raised questions regarding potential conflicts of interest, given his role as a lawmaker. Smith addressed these concerns by stating that the chamber president's responsibilities extend beyond lobbying to include membership, education, and fundraising.