High Stakes in Sussex: House District 20 Special Election is a litmus test for the direction of the State

Milton, Del. — July 16, 2025

A single vote in one election this summer could tell us a lot about Delaware’s political future.

On August 5, residents of House District 20 will head to the polls for a rare and critical special election—one that could not only determine who represents Milton and surrounding Sussex County communities, but also shape the balance of power in Dover for the next 18 months.

With the resignation of Rep. Stell Parker Selby (D), the once-safely Democratic seat is now up for grabs in what’s become a fiercely competitive race between Republican Nikki Miller and Democrat Alonna Berry. And in a district that was decided by just 245 votes last November, every ballot cast on August 5 will matter.

Delaware’s 20th House District covers a scenic and fast-growing stretch of eastern Sussex County, including, Lewes, Milton, Nassau, Pinetown, Belltown, and parts of Harbeson and Georgetown.

A Power Shift in the Making

Though Democrats currently hold a 26–15 majority in the state House, losing this seat would weaken their margin and dampen momentum heading into 2026. A Republican victory could slow or stall legislative priorities on everything from education to energy policy—and serve as a sign that shifting voter attitudes in Sussex County are real.

“This election isn’t just about one seat,” said Jane Brady, Chair of A Better Delaware. “It’s a litmus test for the direction of the state. And with turnout expected to be low, the side that motivates its base will win.”

Special elections are notorious for their unpredictability. Held in the middle of summer, without the buzz of statewide or national contests, they often draw a fraction of the usual electorate. That makes voter participation even more crucial.

The Candidates: Familiar Faces, Contrasting Visions

Nikki Miller, a seasoned educator and the Republican nominee, nearly won this seat in 2024. She is running again on a platform focused on education, public safety, infrastructure, and responsive local government. Miller currently serves as Supervisor of Instruction for the Seaford School District and is a former principal at Cape Henlopen High School.

“As a mother, educator, administrator, and public servant, I’ve spent my life solving problems, not playing politics,” Miller said. “I’m ready to get to work on traffic improvements, responsive constituent service, protecting our farmland, smart growth with infrastructure, and addressing the health and wellness needs of our children and seniors.”

Alonna Berry, the Democratic nominee, brings experience from both the nonprofit and public sectors. She currently leads the Delaware Center for Justice and has served in Governor John Carney’s administration as the state’s first Trauma-Informed Care Coordinator. Her campaign centers on equity, mental health, clean energy, and affordable housing.

“As a lifelong Delawarean, I’m running to bring my experience as a mother, educator, and public servant to fight for the people of the 20th District,” Berry said. “My priorities are expanding access to high-quality early childhood education, increasing access to affordable housing, investing in clean energy and coastal resilience, and advancing fair criminal justice reform.”

Berry officially launched her campaign with a rally in Milton Memorial Park on July 12, signaling strong grassroots support and backing from statewide Democratic leadership.

A Race Decided by Engagement

What makes this race so consequential is its timing and narrow margins. With no primaries and limited awareness among casual voters, it will come down to turnout.

“We know what’s at stake,” said a local election official. “But the public has to realize it too. In races like this, 20 or 30 votes in a single precinct can flip the result.”

Both campaigns are ramping up efforts to reach voters through door-knocking, mailers, social media, and early voting outreach. The Department of Elections is overseeing the process, and early voting is expected to begin later this month.

Why It Matters

If the last election is any indication, House District 20 is truly a toss-up. The winner will help decide how Delaware addresses critical issues—from how schools are funded to how local governments manage growth.

More importantly, this race is a reminder that democracy often hinges not on dramatic headlines or sweeping mandates, but on quiet elections held in the dog days of summer.

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For voting details and live updates on House District 20, visit www.milfordlive.com.