Candidate name: Edward Osienski

Party: Democratic

Age: 64

Hometown: Newark

Political experience: Elected representative of the 24th District in 2010.

Professional experience: 45 years in the fire sprinkler industry. 40-year member of Sprinkler Fitters Local Union 669.

What uniquely qualifies you for this office?

I am running for a seventh term because of my commitment to the residents of the district. I have a proven track record of community and constituent service, and that service has only improved with my years of experience in Dover. I work directly with all state agencies to ensure my constituents are receiving the services and resources they need to remain safe and healthy and to protect them and their property values.

What are the top three issues for this office in your view?

Ensuring better educational outcomes for all students, along with access to workforce training that addresses the needs of employers, so more Delawareans can earn a living wage. Provide communities that struggle with high rates of crime and gun violence the resource they need to address the underlying causes. Address the environmental challenges that face us, so our children and our children’s children have a bright and healthy future.

What would be your top priority if elected?

To work with my colleagues in finding solutions to address the issues mentioned above and advancing policies that make life better for all Delawareans.

If you could change one state policy or law, what would it be?

I will continue my effort to end the prohibition on marijuana and allow a safe and regulated industry that would eventually replace the illegal market and create new jobs.

What can Delaware do about its workforce issues?

As a member of the Delaware Workforce Investment Board, we are focusing on what employers’ needs are in their workforce and what will be the next high-growth jobs, so we can select providers to develop training programs and ensure they have the resources to offer the training to those in need. The Pathways programs in our high schools have had great success, and we are expanding to middle school students. I support expanding Pathways programs.

What, if any, gun laws would you change?

We passed three gun bills last year that are being challenged in court. If it is determined these bills need to be changed and reintroduced, I would support that effort.

How would you protect or change abortion rights in the state?

I will support protecting abortion rights in Delaware.

Do you support the State Employee Benefits Committee’s move to a Medicare Advantage plan for state retirees? Why?

At first, I supported the committee’s move because I thought it had the support of the retirees, and it addressed the unfunded liability. As I heard from my constituents and many other retirees, I feel the committee’s decision was rushed, and retirees were not properly informed, so they could be involved in the process. I now feel the only way to determine if the committee followed all required procedures is through the pending lawsuit. If the lawsuit is successful, I would support the committee work begin again with proper notification and transparency.