State Senate · District 8
Republican Candidate
Your Neighbor. Common-Sense Leadership for District 8.
I'm the Republican candidate for the 8th Senate District, which includes Pike Creek, Newark, and surrounding areas. I am a lifelong resident of the district, a small business owner, husband, and father who is deeply invested in the future of our community.
I attended the Christina School District from kindergarten through graduation, and today my family and I are raising our children in the same community that helped shape me. Like many families in our district, our lives revolve around local schools, youth activities, community events, and the everyday challenge of balancing work, family, and planning for the future.
As a small business owner, I understand firsthand the challenges facing families, workers, and employers. I've had to meet payroll, manage rising costs, navigate regulations, and make difficult decisions to keep a business moving forward. Those experiences have taught me the importance of accountability, fiscal responsibility, and practical problem-solving.
I'm running for State Senate because I believe government works best when it focuses less on political division and more on practical solutions. Families want strong schools, affordable energy, safe neighborhoods, thriving local businesses, and opportunities for their children to succeed. Those are the issues that matter most to our community, and they deserve thoughtful, results-oriented leadership.
My approach is simple: listen first, treat people with respect, and work with anyone who has a good idea. I believe public service is about representing people, solving problems, and earning trust through honesty, transparency, and hard work.
I look forward to earning your trust and working together to build an even stronger future for our district and the generations that will call it home.
Rooted in the Community
These are the issues affecting District 8 the most. They aren't talking points — they come from living and working right here alongside you.
I attended K–12 in the Christina School District and I see firsthand how lower enrollment hasn't reduced costs. I want a better balance: less over-reliance on electronics and more hands-on learning that prepares students for real life, while upholding strong family values.
Delaware families shouldn't be at the mercy of big electric companies that dump every extra cost onto consumers. I support emerging Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology to build local energy independence and prevent rolling power outages from high demand.
Delaware's 111,000 small businesses produce more than half the state's jobs — yet they're treated like a nuisance. I'll fight unfair fees and red tape, demand transparency in the unemployment fund, and protect the family livelihoods and community bonds that depend on a real voice in Dover.
First responders deserve our full support, and law-abiding citizens should never be treated as second-class to criminals. I'll back the police and firefighters who protect us and work with neighbors to keep District 8 safe and family-friendly.
Every dollar goes directly to reaching Delaware voters. No contribution is too small — every amount makes a difference.
Donate Now →Paid for by Shane Cavanaugh for State Senate. Contributions are not tax deductible. Maximum contribution per election: $600 per individual.
Elections are won by people, not just dollars. When neighbors talk to neighbors, minds change — and elections turn. Join volunteers across Delaware who are making a real difference in our district.
Connect with voters from the comfort of your home.
Meet your neighbors and share Shane's message face-to-face.
Organize a house party or community gathering in your neighborhood.
Shane Cavanaugh officially filed his candidacy for Delaware State Senate District 8 at the Delaware State Building, marking the formal start of his campaign.
Shane Cavanaugh will be featured at the New Castle County Republican Women's Club Scholarship & Leadership Celebration. Join us to hear from candidates running across the district.
Shane Cavanaugh made an appearance at this year's National Night Out block party — joining the Newark Delaware Police Department and neighbors on Academy Street for food, music, games, and more!
New Castle County Republican candidates gathered at the Republican Women's Club social at Crooked Hammock in Middletown for an evening of food, door prizes, and a silent auction.
This evening's Cops & Cones at Woodside Farm Creamery in Hockessin was canceled due to weather. Watch for a rescheduled date from New Castle County Police.
No upcoming events at this time — check back soon.
View Full Event CalendarTylers Bar & Grill, Newark, DE
5:00 PM
Academy St, between E. Main & E. Delaware, Newark, DE 19711
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM · Shane made an appearance
Crooked Hammock, 316 Auto Park Dr., Middletown, DE
6:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Woodside Farm Creamery, 378 North Star Rd., Hockessin, DE 19707
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM · Canceled due to weather
We want to hear from you. Whether you have a question, media inquiry, or want to share your story — our team is ready to listen.
Address
Newark, Delaware
Phone
Coming soon
shaneforsenatede@gmail.com
Office Hours
Mon–Fri: 9 AM – 6 PM Sat: 10 AM – 3 PM
For press credentials, interviews, or statements, contact our communications director:
shaneforsenatede@gmail.com