Michael Katz holds a strong lead in the Delaware Republican Senate primary, scheduled for September 15, 2026, reflecting his prior service as a Democratic state senator, name recognition from a 2024 independent U.S. Senate bid, and recent party switch. These factors give him an edge in a low-visibility contest against John Shulli, a retired Army colonel and War College instructor with limited statewide profile. Fundraising remains modest for both, with no major endorsements or polling shifts reported in recent weeks. Traders appear to view Katz's established Delaware connections and ballot history as decisive advantages in the closed primary, while Shulli's military experience has not yet narrowed the gap. The race stays low-profile ahead of the general election matchup against incumbent Democrat Chris Coons.