Jack Markell

Markell was born and raised in Newark, Delaware, the son of Elaine "Leni", a social worker, and William Markell, who taught accounting at the University of Delaware.{{cite web |url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/delawareonline/access/1742833911.html?FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=May+06%2C+2008&author=CHRISTINE+FACCIOLO&pub=The+News+Journal&desc=Do+our+genes+determine+how+we+vote%3F&pqatl=google |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130131154358/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/delawareonline/access/1742833911.html?FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=May+06,+2008&author=CHRISTINE+FACCIOLO&pub=The+News+Journal&desc=Do+our+genes+determine+how+we+vote%3F&pqatl=google |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 31, 2013 |title=Do our genes determine how we vote? |publisher=Pqasb.pqarchiver.com |access-date=December 26, 2014}}{{cite web |url=https://6abc.com/archive/6706402/ |title=6abc.com and Action News: Father of Delaware governor dead at 85 | 6abc.com |publisher=Abclocal.go.com |date=March 12, 2009 |access-date=November 22, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130728144559/http://abclocal.go.com/wpvi/story?section=news%2Flocal&id=6706402 |archive-date=July 28, 2013 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=https://agdev.anr.udel.edu/CANRConnect/tag/donors/ |title=CANR Connect » Sustaining the world through science and technology » donors |publisher=Agdev.anr.udel.edu |access-date=November 22, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141215062622/http://agdev.anr.udel.edu/CANRConnect/tag/donors/ |archive-date=December 15, 2014 |url-status=dead }} He graduated from Newark High School. As a child, he attended Camp Galil, a summer camp in the Labor Zionist youth movement, Habonim Dror.{{cite web |url=http://www.jewishtimes.com/index.php/jewishtimes/article/ron_bloom_car_czar_in_the_labor_zionist_tradition/ |title=Ron Bloom: Car Czar in the Labor Zionist Tradition |last=Tepper |first=Rachel |date=August 27, 2009 |work=Baltimore Jewish Times |access-date=August 29, 2009|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090910035543/http://www.jewishtimes.com/index.php/jewishtimes/article/ron_bloom_car_czar_in_the_labor_zionist_tradition|archive-date=September 10, 2009}} He graduated from Brown University earning his Bachelor of Arts in economics and development studies, and went on to the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, earning his Master of Business Administration (MBA).

Markell began his business career in 1982, working as a banker at First Chicago Corporation. He then became a consultant at McKinsey & Company in 1986. Markell joined Fleet Call – later known as Nextel Communications (a name that Markell coined){{cite web |url=http://voices.washingtonpost.com/thefix/the-rising/the-rising-jack-markell.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130201061007/http://voices.washingtonpost.com/thefix/the-rising/the-rising-jack-markell.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=February 1, 2013 |title=The Rising: Jack Markell, Risk-Taker |author=Chris Cillizza |author2=Washington Post |author2-link=Washington Post |work=washingtonpost.com | date =December 10, 2009}} – where he served as the senior vice president for corporate development from 1989 to 1995. Becoming the company's 13th employee, Markell joined Nextel when the company was in a nascent stage; helping lead Nextel to nationwide success during the wireless telecommunications revolution of the 1990s.{{cite web |url=http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0812/79692.html |title=Is what's good for Bain good for United States? |author=Politico |author-link=Politico |publisher=politico.com |date=August 13, 2012}} After leaving Nextel, Markell worked as a senior manager at Comcast Corporation from 1996 to 1998.

Markell was first elected state treasurer of Delaware in 1998, unseating four-term Republican incumbent Janet Rzewnicki, and was re-elected in 2002 and 2006.

As treasurer, Markell led the development of several educational efforts in personal financial management, known collectively as "the Financial Literacy initiatives". He created the "Delaware Money School", which offers free classes to Delaware residents on topics such as saving for college and retirement planning. He also started the "Delaware Bank at School Program" which takes banks and financial education to schools. He partnered with the University of Delaware, Center for Economic Education and Entrepreneurship, as well as several Delaware banks, to teach young people the basics of money and savings.

In 2001, Governor Ruth Ann Minner chose Markell to chair the information services task force, which developed and implemented recommendations to modify the state's management of information technology. In 2002, he led an effort to streamline and coordinate the procurement of goods and services while using state-of-the-art purchasing techniques. He also led the "Health Rewards" initiative, which offers Delaware state government employees comprehensive physical assessments, detailed statistics about how their health compares with their peers across the country, and recommendations about how they can improve their health.

{{Main|2008 Delaware gubernatorial election}}

On June 6, 2007, Markell officially launched his candidacy for governor of Delaware, setting up a primary with lieutenant governor John Carney. Beginning in the summer of 2007, Markell released fourteen policy papers on issues ranging from energy to health care to education. Early, Markell was far behind in polls and endorsements; the Young Democrats Movement and other organizations allowed Markell to gain early momentum, but these efforts were offset by the endorsement of Carney by the Delaware Democratic Party. Markell closed in the polls slowly until election day when Carney still held a small lead.

Markell won an upset victory over Carney, with 51.2% of the vote in the Democratic primary.{{cite web |url=http://elections.delaware.gov/archive/elect08/elect08_primary_election/html/election.shtml |title=State of Delaware - Office of the State Election Commissioner - State Of Delaware |publisher=Elections.delaware.gov |access-date=December 26, 2014 |archive-date=July 14, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120714185006/http://elections.delaware.gov/archive/elect08/elect08_primary_election/html/election.shtml |url-status=dead }} Against former judge Bill Lee, who also had been the Republican nominee for governor in 2004, Markell won the general election with 67% of the vote.{{cite news |title=ELECTION '08: Markell wins in 36-point landslide; Weldin-Stewart takes insurance commissioner |url=http://www.communitypub.com/news/x635426523/ELECTION-08-Lee-concedes-governors-race |date=November 5, 2008 |newspaper=Sussex Countian}}

File:Jack Markell 48-DPA-944 DSC 9158 (cropped).jpg

{{Main|2012 Delaware gubernatorial election}}

Markell won a second term on November 6, 2012, defeating Republican challenger Jeff Cragg by nearly 40 points.

;Inauguration

According to The News Journal, Markell's 2009 inauguration ceremony was held in the middle of the night to comply with the requirements of the state constitution that the governor be inaugurated on the third Tuesday of January and to allow Delaware residents to enjoy the historic event that would occur later that day: the inauguration of President Barack Obama and his vice president, Delaware's Joe Biden. A traditional swearing-in ceremony was held the following day on Legislative Mall in Dover, Delaware.{{cite web |url=http://inaugural.delaware.gov/events.shtml |title=Inauguration Day 2009 - Events |publisher=Inaugural.delaware.gov |access-date=March 12, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101103145602/http://inaugural.delaware.gov/events.shtml |archive-date=November 3, 2010 }}

; Budget

Markell entered office with an unprecedented budget challenge,{{cite web |url=http://delawareonline.com |title=The News Journal - Delawareonline.com - Delaware news |access-date=December 26, 2014}} facing a deficit of almost $800,000,000. One of his first actions was to cut his own salary by 20%. Markell announced his plan to balance the budget in March 2009. Avoiding lay-offs, Markell's plan included an 8% pay cut for state employees, legalization and taxation of sports betting, over $200 million worth of cuts, and revenue enhancements on such things as liquor and tobacco.{{cite web |url=http://governor.delaware.gov |title=State of Delaware - Governor Jack Markell |publisher=Governor.delaware.gov |access-date=March 12, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110325102907/http://governor.delaware.gov/ |archive-date=March 25, 2011 }}

After failing to obtain an initial majority in the House of Representatives, Markell's sports betting proposal was approved on a second vote in May 2009. Legislation legalizing sports betting was quickly approved by the state senate, and signed into law by the governor. Initial estimates of revenue for the state from sports betting were between 50 and 60 million dollars. Current revenues estimates are lower following a decision by the U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals banning single game bets.

Following late night budget negotiations at Legislative Hall, a compromise budget was passed by the General Assembly and signed at 4 AM on July 1, avoiding a budget crisis and government shut down.{{cite web |url=http://delawaregrapevine.com |title=Delaware Grapevine |publisher=Delaware Grapevine |access-date=March 12, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110227142737/http://delawaregrapevine.com/ |archive-date=February 27, 2011 }} Several states in similar circumstances were unable to meet their budget deadlines and were forced to cut or close down many government offices and programs.

The FY 2011 budget focuses on job creation and economic development, counteracted by a reduction in the number of state employees. Compared to the 2009 budget, the new budget is $50 million less and includes 1,026 fewer state positions.{{cite web |url=http://governor.delaware.gov/news/2010/1007july/20100701_budget_signed.shtml |title=Governor Signs New Budget for Delaware Which Makes Cuts and Keeps Commitments |publisher=Governor.delaware.gov |access-date=March 12, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110312032254/http://governor.delaware.gov/news/2010/1007july/20100701_budget_signed.shtml |archive-date=March 12, 2011 }}

;Environment

Following through on several campaign promises early in his term, Markell signed energy legislation aimed to reduce Delaware's energy consumption by 15% by 2015, updating building codes, and mandating that renewable energy be considered first when expanding supplies.{{cite web |url=http://governor.delaware.gov/news/2009/07july/20090729-energy.shtml |title=Markell Signs Landmark Energy Legislation Into Law |publisher=Governor.delaware.gov |access-date=March 12, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110217213933/http://governor.delaware.gov/news/2009/07july/20090729-energy.shtml |archive-date=February 17, 2011 }} Markell also creates a new recycling program which would require both public and private waste collectors to offer curbside recycling pickups at least once every other week and provide containers. "The recycling bill was the home run of the year." said state Senator David McBride.{{cite web |url=http://governor.delaware.gov/news/2010/1006june/20100608-recycling.shtml#TopOfPage |title=Markell Signs Law to Make Universal Recycling a Reality |publisher=Governor.delaware.gov |access-date=March 12, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110217213347/http://governor.delaware.gov/news/2010/1006june/20100608-recycling.shtml#TopOfPage |archive-date=February 17, 2011 }} A new clean energy bill will require utilities to rely on clean energy for 25% of their energy. This law also promotes shared solar installations and supports smaller green-energy projects.{{cite web |url=http://www.delawareonline.com/article/20100630/NEWS02/6300339/Delaware-recycling-law-caps-landmark-year-in-Dover |title=Delaware recycling law caps landmark year in Dover |website=www.delawareonline.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100705234813/http://www.delawareonline.com/article/20100630/NEWS02/6300339/Delaware-recycling-law-caps-landmark-year-in-Dover |archive-date=July 5, 2010}}

;LGBT rights

On July 2, 2009, Markell signed legislation banning discrimination based on sexual orientation in housing, insurance, public accommodations and employment, ending a ten-year battle.{{cite web |url=http://governor.delaware.gov/news/2009/07july/20090702-equalrights.shtml |title=Markell Signs Landmark Equal Rights Law |publisher=Governor.delaware.gov |access-date=March 12, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110217213909/http://governor.delaware.gov/news/2009/07july/20090702-equalrights.shtml |archive-date=February 17, 2011 }} On May 11, 2011, Markell also signed a civil union bill, which became effective on January 1, 2012.{{cite web|url=http://governor.delaware.gov/news/2011/1105may/20110511-civilunions.shtml|title=Delaware Governor Signs Landmark Civil Union Legislation Into Law|publisher=Governor.delaware.gov|access-date=December 26, 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150218012130/http://governor.delaware.gov/news/2011/1105may/20110511-civilunions.shtml|archive-date=February 18, 2015}}

;Education

Markell proposed and signed major educational reform initiatives, including abolishing the controversial Delaware Student Testing Program, establishing a pilot program to reward improving schools, and passing legislation to improve transparency and autonomy within school districts.{{cite web |url=http://governor.delaware.gov/news/2009/08august/20090813-education.shtml |title=Markell Signs Education Reforms Bills Into Law |publisher=Governor.delaware.gov |access-date=March 12, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110217213947/http://governor.delaware.gov/news/2009/08august/20090813-education.shtml |archive-date=February 17, 2011 }}

Markell facilitated the acquisition of the Newark Chrysler plant by the University of Delaware (UD) to build a research and technology campus that may generate both employment and local innovation. UD President Patrick Harker stated: "Our goal over time is to construct high performance facilities that support the University's Climate Action Plan and restore portions of the land and natural features."{{cite web|url=http://www.udel.edu/udaily/2010/nov/chrysler112309.html |title=UD officially acquires Chrysler property in Newark |publisher=Udel.edu |date=November 23, 2009 |access-date=March 12, 2011}}

In March 2010, Delaware placed first out of the 16 finalists in the federal government's grant competition for innovative education reform, making the state eligible to receive as much as $119 million. The money received will be used to identify and better Delaware's low-performing schools, improve the system for evaluating students, and raise the standard for and improve the quality of the state's educators.{{cite web |url=http://governor.delaware.gov/news/2010/1003march/20100329-racetothetop.shtml#TopOfPage |title=Delaware One of Two States Selected for Race-to-the-Top Education Award |publisher=Governor.delaware.gov |access-date=March 12, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110217211741/http://governor.delaware.gov/news/2010/1003march/20100329-racetothetop.shtml#TopOfPage |archive-date=February 17, 2011 }}

;State economy

In addition to reduced state revenue, the current economic environment has driven rising unemployment. In response, Markell initiated several economic development initiatives, including the LIFT Program, meant to ensure the survival and growth of small businesses.{{cite web |url=http://governor.delaware.gov/news/2009/04april/20090420-lift.shtml |title=Markell Launches Small Business LIFT |publisher=Governor.delaware.gov |access-date=March 12, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110217213745/http://governor.delaware.gov/news/2009/04april/20090420-lift.shtml |archive-date=February 17, 2011 }}

Following the closure of the GM plant in July 2009, Markell and his team pursued Fisker Automotive. Although in competition with several other states, a deal was signed to reopen the facility after just over two months of negotiations. Fisker will invest a minimum of US$175 million in upgrading the plant. Production of hybrid sedans will begin as early as 2011 for the domestic market as well as for export through the Port of Wilmington. Fisker anticipates that the process will create approximately 2,500 jobs and contribute to Delaware's effort to compete in the "green economy."{{cite web|url=http://www.siteselection.com/ssinsider/bbdeal/Driving-Home-for-Thanksgiving.htm |title=Driving Home for Thanksgiving - Site Selection Online |publisher=Siteselection.com |date=November 23, 2009 |access-date=March 12, 2011}}

In 2010, when Valero announced that they were closing their Delaware City Refinery, Markell aided in the negotiations with Valero, allowing PBF Energy to purchase the refinery.{{Cite press release|url=http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20100408006593/en/Valero-Sell-Delaware-City-Assets-220-Million|title=Valero to Sell Delaware City Assets for $220 Million|website=www.businesswire.com|language=en|access-date=October 3, 2017}} The refinery became operational in 2011, and Markell and PBF agreed that the company would receive economic development incentives in exchange for providing 600 full-time jobs.{{Cite news|url=http://www.delcotimes.com/article/DC/20120331/NEWS/303319953|title=How do you save a refinery? It can be done, just look at Delaware|access-date=October 3, 2017|language=en}}

Sallie Mae, one of the nation's largest providers of student loans, decided to relocate its headquarters to Delaware. The company expects to hire as many as 1,500 Delawareans over the next five years.http://www.delawareonline.com/article/20100701/BUSINESS/100701042/Sallie%20Mae%20moving%20HQ%20%201%20500%20jobs%20to%20Del {{dead link|date=March 2011}} Thanks to the Delaware Strategic Fund, a state program that can provide economic incentives to companies thinking of moving to Delaware, Markell and his economic development team have also succeeded in attracting businesses such as Sanosil International and Testing Machines Inc.{{cite web | url=http://www.delawareonline.com/article/20100702/BUSINESS/7020349/Sallie-Mae-just-most-recent-of-Delaware-s-successes | title=Sallie Mae just most recent of Delaware's successes | access-date=November 19, 2017 | archive-date=July 7, 2010 | archive-url=https://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20100707182743/http://www.delawareonline.com/article/20100702/BUSINESS/7020349/Sallie-Mae-just-most-recent-of-Delaware-s-successes | url-status=bot: unknown }}

In June 2010, Markell signed into law the Business Finder's Fee Tax Credit or "BFF", which provides incentives for companies that bring new jobs to the state. "The BFF program will make us more effective and efficient by enlisting Delawareans across the state to search for more opportunities to create jobs," said Markell.{{cite web |url=http://governor.delaware.gov/news/2010/1006june/20100616-bff.shtml#TopOfPage |title=Markell Issues Call to Action as He Signs Bi-Partisan "BFF" Bill |publisher=Governor.delaware.gov |access-date=March 12, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110217213340/http://governor.delaware.gov/news/2010/1006june/20100616-bff.shtml#TopOfPage |archive-date=February 17, 2011 }}

File:Detachment 1, Company F 1-126th Aviation welcome home 150711-A-GL773-135.jpg

;Budget and economy

As in Markell's first term, the slow national economic recovery left Delaware with a budget shortfall. In order to sign a constitutionally mandated balanced budget, Markell proposed a budget for fiscal year 2014 that included an extension of some 2009 revenue enhancements. While his budget extended previous tax increases, he also proposed to decrease tax rates where possible. He signed bills extending the tax rates in March 2013 and a full budget on July 1, 2013.{{cite web|url=http://delaware.newszap.com/centraldelaware/121154-70/markell-signs-legislation-keeping-tax-hikes-in-place |title=Markell signs legislation keeping tax hikes in place |publisher=Delaware Newszap |access-date=December 26, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141229201432/http://delaware.newszap.com/centraldelaware/121154-70/markell-signs-legislation-keeping-tax-hikes-in-place |archive-date=December 29, 2014 }}{{cite web|url=http://www.wdde.org/46410-gov-markell-signs-2014-budget-bills|title=Gov. Markell signs 2014 budget bills|publisher=Wdde.org|access-date=December 26, 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141228210411/http://www.wdde.org/46410-gov-markell-signs-2014-budget-bills|archive-date=December 28, 2014}}

Facing a $139-million budget shortfall for 2015, Markell's proposed budget included a series of targeted tax increases and spending cuts. Markell's budget called for increases in taxes on LLC (Limited Liability Corporations) formation and the state's minimum corporate franchise tax. In an effort to boost jobs and improve the state's infrastructure, Markell also presented a $500- million transportation infrastructure initiative to be paid for by a 10-cent increase in the state's gas tax.{{cite web|url=http://www.wdde.org/56472-gov-markells-2015-budget-plan-taxes-cuts-overcome-139-million-shortfall|title=Gov. Markell's 2015 budget plan uses taxes and cuts to overcome $139 million shortfall|publisher=Wdde.org|access-date=December 26, 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141228214331/http://www.wdde.org/56472-gov-markells-2015-budget-plan-taxes-cuts-overcome-139-million-shortfall|archive-date=December 28, 2014}}

;LGBT rights

On May 7, 2013, Markell signed legislation legalizing same-sex marriage in Delaware, making Delaware the eleventh state in the nation to expand marriage rights to same-sex couples.{{cite web|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/delaware-passes-gay-marriage-bill-article-1.1337529|title=Delaware passes gay marriage bill|work=NY Daily News|date=May 7, 2013 |access-date=December 26, 2014}} A little over one month later, Markell signed legislation banning discrimination in employment, housing, insurance, public accommodations, and public works for transgender individuals.{{cite web |url=http://www.wmdt.com/story/22643788/governor-markell-signs-gender-identity-nondiscrimination-act |title= Governor Markell Signs Gender Identity Nondiscrimination Act - 47 ABC - Delmarva's Choice|website=www.wmdt.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140408224953/http://www.wmdt.com/story/22643788/governor-markell-signs-gender-identity-nondiscrimination-act |archive-date=April 8, 2014}}

;Campaign finance

Following a legislative task force on election laws and a campaign finance report issued by special prosecutor Norman Veasey, Markell joined with nearly two dozen legislators to introduce a series of six bills to combat corruption and strengthen state campaign finance laws. The bills, among other goals, would enhance investigative powers for election officials, expand disclosure requirements, and protect "whistleblowers" seeking to expose campaign finance violations.{{cite web|url=http://delaware.newszap.com/centraldelaware/130975-70/campaign-finance-reforms-target-pay-to-play-culture |title=Campaign finance reforms target 'pay-to-play' culture |publisher= Delaware Newszap |access-date=December 26, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141229193217/http://delaware.newszap.com/centraldelaware/130975-70/campaign-finance-reforms-target-pay-to-play-culture |archive-date=December 29, 2014 }}

;Gun control

Responding to a renewed national dialogue surrounding pervasive gun violence following the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School, Markell joined with Attorney General Beau Biden to introduce a series of five bills designed to curb gun violence. The proposals included requirements for reporting stolen or lost guns, a ban on certain assault weapons and high capacity magazine, universal background checks, new safeguards against licensing firearms to individuals with serious mental health issues, and a ban on firearms within 1000 feet of a school.{{cite web|url=http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/local/delaware-feature/49542-gun-control-measured-unveiled-in-delaware|title=Gun control measures unveiled in Delaware|author=Mark Eichmann|date=January 14, 2013|work=Newsworks.org|access-date=December 26, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141226234754/http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/local/delaware-feature/49542-gun-control-measured-unveiled-in-delaware|archive-date=December 26, 2014|url-status=dead}}

Not all of Markell's proposals passed the state legislature during the 2013 session. By July 2013, Markell had signed legislation on lost or stolen firearms and universal background checks.{{cite web|url=http://news.delaware.gov/2013/07/01/markell-signs-budget-capping-legislative-session-that-strengthens-delaware-schools-business-climate-public-safety-and-equality/|title=Markell Signs Budget Capping Legislative Session that Strengthens Delaware Schools, Business Climate, Public Safety and Equality|date=July 1, 2013|work=State of Delaware News|access-date=December 26, 2014}} Legislation preventing firearms from being legally sold to individuals with serious mental illness failed in the state senate, despite the NRA remaining neutral and the House passing the same legislation by a vote of 40 to 1.{{cite web|url=http://www.delawareonline.com/story/news/politics/2013/12/24/biden-renews-push-for-gun-bill/4197739/|title=Biden renews push for gun bill|author=Jonathan Starkey, The News Journal|date=December 24, 2013|publisher=Delawareonline.com|access-date=December 26, 2014}}

;Environment

In March 2014, Markell proposed an $800-million effort to clean Delaware's long-neglected waterways. Announcing the new initiative, Markell said, ""Somebody has to do this [...] We have a fundamental responsibility, I believe, to leave the next generation cleaner water – water you can fish in, water you can swim in, not as many problems with drinking water, not as many problems with stormwater and all that flooding. ... It's just not acceptable and it's embarrassing." Markell proposes to pay for the new initiative through a series of loans and a small tax on water usage by homeowners, which would average around $45 a year.{{cite web|url=http://www.delawareonline.com/story/news/2014/03/04/markell-water-quality-tax/6008877/|title=Markell seeks new tax to improve water|author=Jeff Montgomery and Molly Murray, The News Journal|date=March 4, 2014|publisher=Delawareonline.com|access-date=December 26, 2014}}

;Minimum wage

Heading President Barack Obama's call for an increase in the minimum wage, Markell signed legislation increasing Delaware's minimum wage to $8.25 an hour in March 2014. The increase boosts wages for 40,000 Delawareans, or roughly 10% of the state's workforce.{{cite web|url=http://www.delawareonline.com/article/20140131/NEWS02/301310036|title=Government & Politics - The News Journal - delawareonline.com|work=The News Journal|access-date=December 26, 2014}}

;Education

Markell's World Language Expansion Initiative created language immersion programs at the elementary school level in either Mandarin or Spanish for Delaware children in grades K–8. By 2022, it is expected that 10,000 students will participate. In recognition of this accomplishment and of his support for world language and culture learning, Markell received the Foreign Language Advocacy Award from the Northeast Conference on the Teaching of Foreign Languages in 2013.{{cite web|title=The James W. Dodge Foreign Language Advocate Award |url=http://www.nectfl.org/awards-james-w-dodge-foreign-language-advocate-award |publisher=Northeast Conference on the Teaching of Foreign Languages |access-date=August 28, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140821193635/http://www.nectfl.org/awards-james-w-dodge-foreign-language-advocate-award |archive-date=August 21, 2014 }}

In August 2014, Markell signed House Bill 340 that requires school to have updated plans for a variety of emergency situations.{{cite web|title=HB 340|date=June 30, 2014 |url=http://openstates.org/de/bills/147/HB340/|publisher=Openstates.org|access-date=September 22, 2014}} The bill was considered a part of the governor's "state-of-the-art school safety plan" by the end of 2014 pledge.{{cite web|title=Governor Signs Bill to Accelerate, Enhance School Safety Efforts|date=September 3, 2014|url=http://news.delaware.gov/2014/09/03/governor-signs-bill-to-accelerate-enhance-school-safety-efforts/|publisher=Delaware gov.|access-date=September 22, 2014}}

In December 2013, following a lengthy investigation, special prosecutor E. Norman Veasey released a 101-page report that found that some campaign donors contributed in excess of the legal limits to several state campaigns, including Markell's 2008 race.{{cite web|url=http://www.delawareonline.com/article/20131229/NEWS02/312290036/Veasey-Report-Corrupt-politics-no-charges|title=Government & Politics - The News Journal - delawareonline.com|work=The News Journal|access-date=December 26, 2014}} The report found that personal emails from Markell to several of his contributors advised them on the parameters of the campaign laws, information that the donors later used to donate beyond the legal limit. Special prosecutor Veasey released evidence that even when presented with information from donors that would identify their ownership in a business as being beyond the allowable limit for multiple donations, Markell and his campaign accepted funds above and beyond legal limits. The information that revealed that the donors were exceeding the allowable limit, however, was provided to the Markell campaign, along with the donations, in a column on a spreadsheet that was viewable only by using "formatting features on the spreadsheet software."{{cite web|url=http://s3.documentcloud.org/documents/998631/veasey-report.pdf|title=REPORT OF INDEPENDENT COUNSEL ON INVESTIGATION OF VIOLATIONS OF DELAWARE CAMPAIGN FINANCE AND RELATED STATE LAWS

|publisher=S3.documentcloud.org|access-date=December 26, 2014}} Special prosecutor Veasey did not press charges against elected officials as the statute of limitations had expired and they found "no credible evidence" that Markell's campaign had intentionally broken the law; however, multiple donors had previously pleaded guilty for their participation.{{cite web|url=http://www.wboc.com/story/23393543/plea-hearing-set-in-del-campaign-finance-probe|title=Del. Developer Pleads to Illegal Campaign Contributions|publisher=Wboc.com|access-date=December 26, 2014|archive-date=December 26, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141226234834/http://www.wboc.com/story/23393543/plea-hearing-set-in-del-campaign-finance-probe|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.delawareonline.com/story/news/politics/2014/04/05/markell-campaign-workers-blame/7367521/|title=Markell: Campaign workers not to blame in 2008|author=Jonathan Starkey, The News Journal|date=April 5, 2014|publisher=Delawareonline.com|access-date=December 26, 2014}}

After being elected by a large margin in 2008, Markell served as chairman of the Democratic Governors Association and the National Governors Association, before being re-elected by an even larger margin of over 40%. This record-setting margin and his overall national profile led some to believe that he wanted to seek the Democratic nomination in 2016, though he did not run. Although Markell expressed interest, he also said that he would support Joe Biden if he were to run.

File:Jack Markell (2021).jpg

In 2018, the Jack A. Markell (JAM) bike trail was dedicated to Markell, a 5.5 mile route built on an abandoned railroad line. The trail connects the Wilmington Riverfront with New Castle's Battery Park. The trail features off-road boardwalks and bridges, paved pathways, benches, a bike repair station, and scenic views of the Christiana river's tidal marshes.{{Cite news |title=Jack A. Markell Trail |url=https://delawaregreenways.org/trail/jack-a-markell-trail/ |access-date=January 27, 2023 |website=Delaware Greenways |language=en-US}} The trail is included as part of the East Coast Greenway.

During the evacuation of Afghan civilians as part of Operation Allies Refuge in 2021, Markell was named White House coordinator for Operation Allies Welcome, a civilian-led program to assist refugee resettlement in the United States.{{cite news|last=Slanchik|first=Amy|url=https://www.news9.com/story/6197fd5603cd1f0c0fccdad5/operations-allies-welcome-coordinator-jack-markell-to-view-afghan-resettlement-efforts-during-tulsa-visit-|title=White House Coordinator for Afghan Refugee Resettlement Visits Tulsa, Leaves "Inspired"|publisher=KWTV-DT|date=November 19, 2021|access-date=January 3, 2022}}

On June 23, 2021, President Joe Biden nominated Markell to serve as the United States ambassador to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.{{cite web |title=President Biden Announces 17 Key Nominations |url=https://bidenwhitehouse.archives.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/06/23/president-biden-announces-17-key-nominations/ |website=The White House |access-date=July 29, 2022 |date=June 23, 2021}} Hearings on his nomination were held before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on September 28, 2021. The committee favorably reported his nomination to the Senate floor on October 19, 2021. On December 18, 2021, Markell was confirmed by the United States Senate to serve as the United States ambassador to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development via voice vote.{{Cite web|date=December 18, 2021|title=PN781 - Nomination of Jack A. Markell for Department of State, 117th Congress (2021-2022)|url=https://www.congress.gov/nomination/117th-congress/781|access-date=December 20, 2021|website=www.congress.gov}}

Markell was sworn in on January 14, 2022, and presented his credentials to OECD Secretary General Mathias Cormann on February 11, 2022.{{Cite web|title=Ambassador Jack Markell|url=https://usoecd.usmission.gov/our-relationship/our-ambassador/|access-date=February 11, 2022|website=U.S. Mission to the Organization For Economic Cooperation & Development|language=en-US}}{{Cite tweet |user=USOECD |number= 1492083931654590464 |title=Today, #USOECDAmb Jack Markell presented his credentials to #OECD Secretary General @MathiasCormann.}}

On May 12, 2023, President Biden nominated Markell to be the US ambassador to Italy and San Marino. Hearings on his nomination were held before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on June 21, 2023. The committee favorably reported his nomination on July 13, 2023. It was confirmed by the full United States Senate on July 27, 2023 via voice vote.

Markell presented his credentials to the President of Italy Sergio Mattarella on September 23, 2023.{{Cite tweet |number=1705527799698629036 |user=USAmbItaly |title=I was honored and moved to present my credentials to President Sergio Mattarella at the @Quirinale . I expressed to him my gratitude for the opportunity to work together to make the relationship between our two countries even stronger. Now my mandate officially begins |date=September 23, 2023 |access-date=October 5, 2023}}

Markell is married to Carla Smathers, with whom he has two children.{{cite web|url=http://www.whetstone.wesley.edu/2009/11/23/delaware-first-lady-overcame-many-struggles-during-her-early-life/|title=Delaware First Lady Overcame Many Struggles During Her Early Life|publisher=Whetstone.wesley.edu|access-date=December 26, 2014|archive-date=December 26, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141226233711/http://www.whetstone.wesley.edu/2009/11/23/delaware-first-lady-overcame-many-struggles-during-her-early-life/|url-status=dead}} On November 16, 2013, Markell and his wife performed A. R. Gurney's play Love Letters at a fundraiser for the Delaware Theater Company in Wilmington, Delaware.{{cite web|url=http://www.broadwayworld.com/delaware/article/Governor-Jack-Markell-Wife-Set-for-DTCs-LOVE-LETTERS-Benefit-1116-20131115|title=Governor Jack Markell & Wife Set for DTC's LOVE LETTERS Benefit Tonight|author=BWW News Desk|work=BroadwayWorld.com|access-date=December 26, 2014}}

{{col-begin}}

{{col-break}}

Treasurer of Delaware

{{Election box begin|title=1998 treasurer of Delaware election}}

{{Election box candidate with party link|

|party = Democratic Party (US)

|candidate = Jack Markell

|votes = 103,407

|percentage = 58

|change = –}}

{{Election box candidate with party link|

|party = Republican Party (US)

|candidate = Janet Rzewnicki

|votes = 74,633

|percentage = 42

|change = –}}

{{Election box end}}

{{Election box begin|title=2002 treasurer of Delaware election}}

{{Election box candidate with party link|

|party = Democratic Party (US)

|candidate = Jack Markell (inc.)

|votes = 147,390

|percentage = 66

|change = +8}}

{{Election box candidate with party link|

|party = Republican Party (US)

|candidate = Ronald G. Poliquin

|votes = 75,344

|percentage = 34

|change = −8}}

{{Election box end}}

{{Election box begin|title=2006 treasurer of Delaware election}}

{{Election box candidate with party link|

|party = Democratic Party (US)

|candidate = Jack Markell (inc.)

|votes = 147,382

|percentage = 70.5

|change = +4.5}}

{{Election box candidate with party link|

|party = Republican Party (US)

|candidate = Esthelda R. Parker-Selby

|votes = 73,003

|percentage = 29.5

|change = −4.5}}

{{Election box end}}

{{col-break}}

Governor of Delaware

{{Election box begin|title=Democratic primary for the 2008 Delaware gubernatorial election}}

{{Election box winning candidate with party link|

|party = Democratic Party (United States)

|candidate = Jack Markell

|votes = 37,849

|percentage = 51.2

|change = –}}

{{Election box candidate with party link|

|party = Democratic Party (United States)

|candidate = John Carney

|votes = 36,112

|percentage = 48.8

|change = –}}

{{Election box end}}

{{Election box begin|title=2008 Delaware gubernatorial election}}

{{Election box winning candidate with party link|

|party = Democratic Party (United States)

|candidate = Jack Markell

|votes = 266,858

|percentage = 67.5

|change = +16.3}}

{{Election box candidate with party link|

|party = Republican Party (United States)

|candidate = Bill Lee

|votes = 126,660

|percentage = 32

|change = –}}

{{Election box end}}

{{Election box begin|title=2012 Delaware gubernatorial election}}

{{Election box winning candidate with party link|

|party = Democratic Party (United States)

|candidate = Jack Markell (inc.)

|votes = 275,991

|percentage = 69.1

|change = +1.6}}

{{Election box candidate with party link|

|party = Republican Party (United States)

|candidate = Jeff Cragg

|votes = 113,792

|percentage = 28.6

|change = −3.4}}

{{Election box end}}

{{col-end}}

;Notes

{{Reflist|colwidth=30em}}

;Citations

{{refbegin}}

• {{cite web |url= http://www.delawaregrapevine.com/1-06stateofstate.asp |title= A healthy competition between Jack and John |last= Cohen |first= Celia |publisher= Delaware Grapevine }}
• {{cite web |url= http://www.state.de.us/governor/biography.shtml |title= Biography |author= State of Delaware |access-date= July 18, 2009 |archive-date= March 17, 2007 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070317105450/http://www.state.de.us/governor/biography.shtml |url-status= dead }}
• The News Journal. [http://www.delawareonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080123/NEWS/801230334 Markell leads Carney in campaign funds] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081202142418/http://www.delawareonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080123/NEWS/801230334 |date=December 2, 2008 }}

{{refend}}

• [https://web.archive.org/web/20110325102907/http://governor.delaware.gov/ Delaware Governor Jack Markell] official government site
• {{C-SPAN|85599}}

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{{US Ambassadors to Italy}}

{{Governors of Delaware}}

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{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Markell, Jack}}

Category:1960 births

Category:Living people

Category:21st-century American diplomats

Category:21st-century American Jews

Category:21st-century American politicians

Category:Ambassadors of the United States to Italy

Category:Ambassadors of the United States to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development

Category:Ambassadors of the United States to San Marino

Category:Brown University alumni

Category:Businesspeople from Delaware

Category:Democratic Party governors of Delaware

Category:Henry Crown Fellows

Category:Jewish state governors of the United States

Category:Jewish American people in Delaware politics

Category:Newark High School (Delaware) alumni

Category:People from Newark, Delaware

Category:State treasurers of Delaware

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