Ken Simpler - Delaware State Treasurer

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

In 2014, Delaware State Treasurer Ken Simpler overcame nearly a 2 to 1 registration disadvantage and became the first non-incumbent Republican to win a statewide office in Delaware since 1994. Hear about how Ken pulled off the victory, what a day in the life of state treasurer is, and how Ken turned the darkest moment of the campaign into a bright spot.

2:00 - Who is Ken Simpler?

3:40 - What is the day in the life of a state treasurer?

6:50 - Can you discuss your budget smoothing proposal?

8:30 - How did you enter the race in 2014?

11:30 - Did you get resistance from the Party, other than your primary opponent?

18:10 - What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from being in office so far?

21:00 - Have you seen an increase in partisanship?

23:45 - How can we heal the partisanship and divide in the country?

27:00 - What would you say to a young person thinking about getting involved?

31:00 - Can you take me to the darkest time of your campaign?

37:00 - What’s the biggest personal challenge you’ve overcome?

42:00 - Do you have a personal habit that helped you through a hard time?

43:40 - What book would you assign to a graduating high school or college class?