Franklin D. Cooke Jr.’s work has been about community, taking action, and results with resolve. 

In 2018, State Representative Frank D. Cooke, Jr. was elected to serve the 16th Representative District. Since then, he has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for his community and the people of Delaware. Advocating for environmental justice, equality, and criminal justice reform are just a few areas Franklin is passionate about to get results. Additionally, a stable and thriving economy with job growth are among his priorities as well. 

Frank is proud to serve as chair of the House Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee and is a member of several other panels including the House Corrections Committee, Housing and Community Affairs Committee, the House Judiciary Committee, House Labor Committee, House Veterans Affairs Committee, and House Gaming and Pari Mutuels Committee. Recognizing Franklin’s dedication to be a voice for the voiceless, the Speaker of the House appointed him to serve as a member of the Commission on Forensic Science. Most recently, he was named co-chair of the Law Enforcement Accountability Task Force in 2020. 

Public service is nothing new to Franklin who began his professional career as a police officer with the New Castle County Police Department. During his 30 year tenure in law enforcement, he also served as a liaison between victims of domestic violence and supportive citizens, investigator for the Delaware Office of Defense Services, and worked under the administration of former New Castle County Executive Thomas P. Gordon. 

As the proud father of Franklin D. Cooke, III and grandfather of Gavin Cooke, 

Frank attributes his strong leadership to his family and the district he now proudly represents. He was born and raised in New Castle, Delaware, and earned a B.A. degree from Cheyney State University and is the recipient of many awards including the Cheyney State University Distinguished Alumni Award. Franklin still finds time to be civically engaged as a Mason in the Star in the East Lodge #1 in the State of Delaware PHA, and a member of the Coalition of Black Trade Unions (CBTU), Delaware Chapter. He also served as vice president of FOP Lodge #5, as well as the FOP Grievance Chair. 

Frank’s leadership and trusted experience is proven to help people during the pandemic and related challenging times.