Dennis P. Williams facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Dennis P. Williams
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| 55th Mayor of Wilmington | |
| In office January 8, 2013 – January 3, 2017 |
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| Preceded by | James M. Baker |
| Succeeded by | Mike Purzycki |
| Member of the Delaware House of Representatives from the 1st district |
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| In office 1995–2013 |
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| Preceded by | Orlando J. George Jr. |
| Succeeded by | Charles Potter Jr. |
| Personal details | |
| Born | January 8, 1953 Wilmington, Delaware, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Shayne |
| Alma mater | Delaware Technical Community College |
| Profession | Police Officer |
Dennis P. Williams was born on January 8, 1953. He is an American politician. He served as the Mayor of Wilmington, Delaware. His term as mayor was from 2013 to 2017. Before becoming mayor, he was a member of the Delaware House of Representatives. He represented a district in northern Wilmington from 1995 to 2013.
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Early Life and Public Service
Dennis Williams was born in Wilmington, Delaware. He went to P.S. duPont High School. He later studied criminal justice at Delaware Technical Community College. He also attended the Wilmington Police Academy. After his training, he worked as a police officer in the city. He focused on solving serious cases.
Starting a Political Career
In 1994, a representative named Orlando George, Jr. was re-elected. He then left his position in 1995. This created an open spot in the Delaware House of Representatives. A special election was held to fill this spot. Dennis Williams ran in this election. He won against his opponent, Karen Miller. He then won re-election for his first full term later that year.
Serving in the House of Representatives
After his first full term, Dennis Williams often ran for re-election without opponents. He won easily in most elections. By 2012, he held important roles in the state government. He was the chairman of the joint finance committee. He also led the appropriations committee. These committees manage how the state's money is spent. He was also a member of other committees. These included judiciary, corrections, and public safety.
Becoming Mayor of Wilmington
As his time in the state house was ending, Dennis Williams decided to run for mayor. He wanted to become the next mayor of Wilmington. The current mayor, James M. Baker, could not run again. Williams focused his campaign on reducing crime. He highlighted his experience as a police officer. Many groups supported him, including police and firefighters.
Winning the Mayoral Election
Dennis Williams won the Democratic primary election. This meant he would be the Democratic candidate for mayor. He then won the general election in November 2012. He became the Mayor of Wilmington in January 2013.
Running for a Second Term
In 2016, Mayor Williams ran for re-election. He hoped to serve a second term as mayor. However, he lost in the primary election. Mike Purzycki won the Democratic nomination instead. Purzycki later won the general election. Dennis Williams left office in January 2017. Mike Purzycki then became the new mayor.
