Delaware Lawmaker Resigns Due to PTSD Diagnosis Amid Controversy

Stepping down from his role as the representative of Delaware’s fourth district, State Rep. Gerald Brady cited post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as the reason behind his resignation, effective February.

Having served in the Delaware Army National Guard during conflicts in the Middle East two decades ago, Brady disclosed his PTSD diagnosis and his decision to resign on Feb. 4, as reported by WDEL.

“In grappling with this condition, there are prolonged periods of silent anguish, occasionally punctuated by actions or behaviors that may confound those unfamiliar with the complexities of PTSD,” Brady stated.

He further elaborated, “The readjustment struggles faced by returning veterans can trigger situational pressures, which, when compounded, exact a heavy toll on individuals. Personal, professional challenges, or other traumatic experiences can exacerbate PTSD.”

This announcement followed Brady’s inadvertent email sent on June 27, 2021, containing an anti-Asian slur, specifically targeting Asian women as “ch*nk broads,” to an advocate for the decriminalization of prostitution.

A spokesperson for the House Democratic Caucus clarified that the email was intended for a private individual assisting Brady in summarizing a study from Princeton University, as previously reported by NextShark.

Brady publicly apologized for his actions on social media and later declared his decision not to seek reelection.

While the circumstances surrounding his resignation remain unclear, there was significant public outcry in 2021, urging him to step down.

Additionally, Delaware Online reported an ongoing investigation into Brady for a shoplifting incident, confirmed by a law enforcement official.

A special election will be held to fill Brady’s vacant position in the House for the remainder of his term. However, the replacement will be ineligible for reelection within the next 10 months, as Brady’s district is slated for consolidation with neighboring districts due to population growth in Sussex County.