Marie Pinkney is a Democratic State Senator representing District 13 in the Delaware State Senate, serving since 2020. She made history as the first African American LGBTQ+ person elected to the Delaware Senate, defeating longtime incumbent David McBride in the Democratic primary and general election amid calls for gun control and social reforms. Pinkney advocates against racial and socioeconomic inequalities, stigmas for formerly justice-involved individuals, and barriers for those with limited education; she previously served as a foster mother to a teen mother and her son. Currently a social worker and case manager at ChristianaCare, she focuses on healthcare access, educational support, and community resources, including sponsoring legislation like Bill 316 to cap costs of diabetic supplies. She resides in Bear, Delaware, with her German Shepherd Gandhi and cat Penelope.

Education and Political Experience

Education

• Howard High School of Technology, Class of 2008
• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Norfolk State University, 2013
• Master’s degree in Social Work, Delaware State University, 2014

Political Experience

• Legislative Service: Delaware State Senate, 2020–present
• Current Committee Positions :
  • Chair, Health & Social Services Committee
  • Chair or Vice Chair, Corrections & Public Safety Committee
  • Vice Chair, Housing Committee and Agriculture Committee
  • Member, Senate Executive Committee, Judiciary Committee, and Joint Capital Improvement Committee
• Past Work: Adolescent mental health and substance abuse counseling; surgical ICU at ChristianaCare, addressing gun violence and trauma