Who is Chris Coons and what is Coons running on in the 2026 Delaware Senate race?

Chris Coons is the Democratic candidate for Delaware U.S. Senate, and the incumbent. U.S. Senator since 2010; former New Castle County Executive (2005-2010); sits on Appropriations, Foreign Relations, Judiciary and other committees; won the Sept 15, 2026 primary with 78%. Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

The race

• The seat: Incumbent Democrat Chris Coons seeking re-election (in office since 2010).
• Rating: Safe/Solid D (Cook, Decision Desk HQ, The Economist and others, per Wikipedia).

Why Coons is ahead

• Delaware voted for Harris by ~15 points, and Republicans have not won a Delaware Senate seat since 1994.
• Money gap: Coons had $6.9M raised and $4.8M cash on hand vs Katz’s $159K.
• Katz is a former Democrat and 2024 Independent nominee who only recently became a Republican; he won the Sept 15 primary with 77%.

What Coons is running on

• Trade / economy. Opposes Trump administration tariffs.
• Healthcare. Defends the Affordable Care Act.
• Energy / climate. Backs a transition to clean energy.
• Immigration. Supports immigration reform.
• Campaign message. Runs on experience, public safety, opportunity and making Washington work more like Delaware.

The other candidates

• Michael Katz (R)

Every race

See every Senate and governor race on the ballot, with each candidate’s chance of winning: the 2026 midterms at a glance.