As several states move to restrict certain SNAP purchases, Delaware has chosen not to limit items such as sugar-sweetened beverages. Medical research links obesity to higher rates of diabetes, heart disease, and rising health care costs—conditions already widespread in the state. With SNAP shaping dietary choices and Medicaid covering obesity treatment, this article explores whether aligning nutrition assistance and health policy could improve health outcomes and reduce long-

A federal judge has denied U.S. Wind’s request for a preliminary injunction, a ruling Ocean City quickly called a victory. But despite the headlines, the offshore wind project is far from over. U.S. Wind still holds a valid federal permit, state law may soon allow cables to come ashore, and multiple lawsuits remain active. With federal agencies reexamining approvals and new court challenges underway, the project’s future is uncertain and far from settled.

Delaware’s decision to decouple from federal accelerated depreciation is being framed as budget protection, but in practice it functions as a quiet tax increase on investment. Accelerated depreciation is not a bonus or windfall—it simply allows businesses to recover costs sooner. By slowing deductions for capital equipment and R&D, Delaware raises the effective cost of investing, weakens competitiveness, and signals policy uncertainty at a time when capital can easily move el

Delaware’s electric grid is nearing a breaking point as rising demand collides with declining reliable power generation. Population growth, data centers, and electrification policies are increasing electricity use, while major power plants have closed. With PJM warning of possible blackouts by 2026, Delaware faces urgent questions about affordability, reliability, and energy policy choices needed to keep the lights on and the economy running.

Delaware’s $400 million budget shortfall isn’t the result of federal tax changes—it’s the outcome of years of unchecked state spending. As the Caesar Rodney Institute explains, Dover’s leaders have expanded budgets through off-book appropriations and relied on temporary federal aid to mask structural problems. With surpluses fading, Delaware faces a fiscal crisis of its own making, demanding real reform—not blame-shifting to Washington.

The Caesar Rodney Institute is proud to launch a new feature showcasing Delaware students’ research on real-world community issues. Our first project highlights Benjamin Parsons, a high school senior studying how trail maintenance affects wildlife on the Delmarva Peninsula. His findings use the gray squirrel as a stand-in for the Delmarva fox squirrel and offer practical ways to balance recreation with habitat protection.

As the federal shutdown continues, most Delawareans won’t see changes in their health insurance premiums. The current debate in Washington only affects temporary ACA marketplace subsidies that help a small share of insured residents. Medicare, Medicaid, and employer-based coverage remain stable. Even if enhanced subsidies expire, higher rates would impact only some ACA enrollees. For most Americans, coverage and costs will stay the same. Learn more at CaesarRodney.org.

Delaware’s students are in crisis. New national and state test results show steep declines in reading and math proficiency — only 41% of students meet reading standards and 34% meet math. Teachers are overburdened with nonacademic duties, while programs meant to close achievement gaps show little progress. Delaware must urgently refocus on classroom instruction, evidence-based reading, and teacher support to restore literacy, accountability, and student success.

Yes, Build Small Modular Reactors in Delaware By  David T. Stevenson , Director Center for Energy & Environmental Policy September 30, 2025. (updated 9/30/2025)     To determine whether it is wise to build nuclear small modular reactors (SMRs) in Delaware, the state's Nuclear Energy Task Force must answer a list of questions. Many of those answers are already clear: we can and should build SMRs in Delaware. Technical and Logistical Feasibility   In 2023, Dr. Kathryn Huff, the

Delaware’s New Hybrid Vehicle Fee Doesn’t Add Up Hybrid owners already pay fuel taxes and higher purchase costs - yet now face a $60 annual fee that delivers little revenue and questionable results.   By  David T. Stevenson , Director Center for Energy & Environmental Policy September 15, 2025 (updated Sept. 24, 2025) Delaware's new $60 annual vehicle registration fee on gasoline hybrids should be cut in half. The math shows a fair charge would be closer to $30 a year.   This