The Delaware Republican Party has called for answers regarding the extended absence of Representative Stell Parker Selby from the state legislature, raising concerns about the lack of representation for residents of District 20.
Stell Parker is reportedly unable to attended to her responsibilities due to health issues. On the first day of the new session in January the House Majority Leader said Parker Selby had a health issue and was recovering but did not elaborate.
In a letter addressed to House leadership on Monday, including the Speaker, Majority Leader, and Majority Whip, GOP officials outlined the impact of the absence on legislative proceedings and constituent services. The letter represents the interests of the district’s more than 23,000 registered voters and highlights the need for clarity on when full representation will be restored.
Republican leaders said that their concern is not driven by partisanship but by the principle that all Delawareans deserve active representation. Parker Selby has not been present for legislative duties, including being sworn in, committee assignments, and finance-related meetings, leaving the district without a voice in the House of Representatives for a significant portion of the session according to the letter.
Party officials expressed hope for her full recovery but stressed the importance of transparency regarding when constituents can expect their representative to resume duties. The absence has also placed additional responsibilities on the district’s state senator, who has been handling constituent advocacy alone.
The letter called for an update on Parker Selby’s condition and a timeline for her return or, alternatively, a plan to ensure the district remains represented in the legislature.
Republican leaders stated that the focus remains on the voters who currently lack representation and that they deserve both answers and action from House leadership. Copies of the letter were also sent to other key legislative officials as well.