James Spadola Joins the Democratic Party

by James Spadola

October 6, 2025

Last week, I officially became a registered Democrat. I was honored that Congresswoman Sarah McBride and Wilmington City Democratic Committee Chair Cassandra Marshall joined me at the Department of Elections as I changed registration. 

Congresswoman McBride said, “I’ve had the privilege of working with Councilman Spadola for years, and I’m thrilled to welcome him to the Democratic Party. James has always led with compassion and purpose with a focus on solving problems, not scoring points. His decision reflects a shared belief that government should be about service, not spectacle.

Councilman Spadola has shown that progress isn’t about labels; it’s about listening, collaborating, and delivering for the people we represent. I look forward to continuing our partnership to move Wilmington forward together.”

Marshall stated: “Since taking office here in Wilmington, Councilman James Spadola has put the betterment of Wilmington and Wilmington residents first, an approach that has served the City well.   He doesn’t indulge in prepackaged partisan wrangling or disrespect: he puts on his problem-solving hat and gets to work for all Wilmingtonians every day.  Wilmington Democrats are pleased to welcome Councilman Spadola to the Democratic Party, and we’re excited to see what he’ll accomplish as a member of our Party.”

I believe there’s a home for moderates in the Democratic Party, and the warm welcome I’ve received over the past week proves it. I was deeply honored to also receive a call from Delaware Democratic Chair Evelyn Brady, who beat me to the punch in welcoming me in.

As I weighed this decision, I inverted the question: not just why switch, but why stay Republican? Other than staying the course, I could not find a reason that fit my values or my vision for Wilmington, certainly not under the GOP’s nostalgic claim of fiscal responsibility.

Alright, enough politics for me. Back to focusing on Wilmington and working with anyone who wants to move our city forward!