By Glenn Rolfe

GEORGETOWN — Political interest is growing in Delaware’s 6th senatorial district.

Friday morning, State Rep. Steve Smyk, a Republican who has represented the House of Representatives’ 20th District since 2012, filed with the Department of Elections, seeking to move from the House to the Senate.

Three Democrats — John “Jack” Bucchioni of Milton/Lewes, Russ Huxtable of Lewes and Ryan Peters of Lewes — previously filed as candidates for the Senate seat currently held by Republican Ernesto Lopez, who announced last year he would not seek another term.

Rep. Smyk, 56, said his decision for change is larger representation.

“Redistricting has redefined not only the districts, but it actually shrunk the geographical area because of the population increase. I am representing a smaller territory if I stay in the 20th (RD). I have served very well in the 20th,” said Rep. Smyk. “Once you start serving people, you don’t mind serving them further. So, the 6th District, even though it is smaller than what it was in the previous decade, it’s still twice the size, still larger than the 20th.”

He said after a decade serving in the House, he wants to “expand that responsibility to the people that have supported me, who are not only my family and friends but have been adopted as my community.”

The 6th District, revised through redistricting from the U.S. 2020 Census, spans north of Lewes, the coastal towns of Rehoboth Beach and Dewey as well as Angola, and areas along Del. 30 and Del. 9.

Rep. Smyk is quick to note that Sen. Lopez has held the 6th District seat since 2012.

“Proof positive what is claimed to be a liberal district, that doesn’t necessarily mean it is a Democratic district,” Rep. Smyk said. “I can follow in the footprints of a very good senator. Sen. Lopez has done a wonderful job … and he has made people feel like he is always there. “

“That is what I have done,” Rep. Smyk added. “But I have got to tell you not at the level that he has done. I do not claim to be Senator Lopez. But one thing I am certain of is that I will represent that district with the same amount of concern for everyone, and every individual, yet I will represent the majority of that district. I think that’s what matters.”

A Delaware National Guard veteran, Rep. Smyk is a retired state trooper with 24 years with the Delaware State Police.

He hopes to remain a voice for constituents in Dover.

“You should never enter into an office of public trust with a political allegiance or a political agenda,” Rep. Smyk said. “The reason why someone should run for office is to be the voice of his surrounding community. I want to continue doing that. The purpose of life is to serve others. If you are not doing that then you are not taking advantage of the gifts that God gave you.”