EDITORIAL: Lt. Governor Selection Process Has Turned Into an Open Casting Call

EDITORIAL: Lt. Governor Selection Process Has Turned Into an Open Casting Call

The list of those who have applied to be considered for Lieutenant Governor includes many well-intentioned people who would like to serve the State of Rhode Island.

Their desire to pursue civic duty in this capacity is laudable.

But, the reality is that none of them are fully qualified for the position.

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This process has not worked -- it has been made into a farce with TV weathermen applying.

We are at a critical stage in the state’s history. As we have been reminded in the past year, life is amazingly precious.

Incoming Governor Dan McKee will soon turn 70 and the next Lt. Governor needs to be ready — ready to assist Governor McKee during his 21-month term as governor. And, the individual must be ready to take over and lead the state in case of a health emergency.

A number of candidates have strengths and different valuable experiences, but they are not ready to take over the leadership of the state in the case of the sitting governor's death.

This vetting process is fatally flawed.

The state constitution allows in this instance the incoming Governor to choose the next Lt. Governor. The voters do not get to decide. This is not a popularity contest nor an open casting call. 

McKee’s effort to make the process inclusive was admirable, but it has not worked. And, it is okay for McKee to change course and explain to Rhode Islanders why it had not achieved the results that he had hoped. That would be commendable and will be a welcomed contrast to out-going Governor Gina Raimondo.

It is time to hit the proverbial reset button.

McKee's tenure as governor will be judged on a number of things, but none will be more important than the quality of his staff and those that direct key functions in state government.

None of McKee’s appointments will be more important than his selection for Lt. Governor. It is time to get on the phone to Rhode Island’s most accomplished and qualified individuals who can hit the ground running, and ask them to serve for a minimum of 21 months to help Rhode Island recover from one of the most crucial health and economic crises in the state’s history.

We need our very best - now.