Castle: McBride delivers the courage we need

True courage is marching toward a goal despite high stakes, rough terrain and uncertain success. My friend, Sen. Sarah McBride of Wilmington, a Democratic candidate for U.S. Congress, not only embodies this rare shape of courage but also inspires it in those around her.

Sarah’s joy in improving the lives of Delawareans has been evident throughout her tenure as my state senator, boldly championing key issues like paid family leave, environmental protection, education reform, criminal justice reform, women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights and the fight for $15 minimum wage. In 2021, I worked with Sarah on legislation to improve access to home electric vehicle charging for lower-income Delawareans. Sarah believed in this vision, and despite numerous barriers, she forged a bipartisan alliance of municipalities, nongovernmental organizations and activists across the state. Sarah’s resolve broke through the obstacles, got the job done and moved the First State toward environmental justice.

Sarah routinely and confidently leads from the front, pushing for real change even when others hesitate. What sets Sarah apart is her resolve to find common cause in unexpected places, building coalitions to achieve what might seem impossible or, absent her tenacity, would require the long arc of history to realize.

Sarah’s courage impacted my life long before we met, though. Simply witnessing her infectious bravery rekindled my own voice, reminding me that I had both the opportunity and the responsibility to join her in the fight for our future. This is Sarah’s superpower: She doesn’t just encourage people to vote; she creates a wake that draws people into action, forming the coalitions needed to tackle the big issues we all face.

As we navigate the challenges ahead, we need a leader like Sarah McBride — someone capable and courageous enough to fight for the future we all deserve. I proudly endorse Sen. Sarah McBride because she is uniquely qualified to bring meaningful action and change to the U.S. House of Representatives.

Cora L. Castle

President and founder, OmniPotential Energy Partners

Vice chair, New Castle County Board of Adjustment

Executive Committee secretary, Sierra Club of Delaware

Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at civiltalk@iniusa.org .