Cranston Endorsements for Mayor Are Latest Battle
GoLocalProv Political Team
Cranston Endorsements for Mayor Are Latest Battle
Cranston City Council President Michael Farina was the big winner. He was the only candidate on either side of the aisle to secure an endorsement.
Farina won by an overwhelming majority of 33-9, received the Cranston Republican City Committee (CRCC) endorsement.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST“I am humbled and honored to receive the endorsement of the Cranston Republican City Committee. It is the next step as we work towards a primary win in September. The CRCC knows I am the right candidate and has full confidence in my ability to lead Cranston into a brighter future," said Farina.
"My skills in leadership, my strong financial acumen, and my effectiveness in creating innovative solutions are critically important in this race. My opponent does not have these skills, and this overwhelming support shows that,” he added. “Since we announced our campaign in January, there has been tremendous enthusiasm and support around my candidacy. We are excited to add new members as we work to grow the party.”
Farina's opponent, Cranston Councilman and Republican Mayoral candidate Kenneth Hopkins expressed disappointment in not obtaining the Republican City Committee endorsement for his mayoral candidacy.
“I am very grateful for the support I did have among party members,” said Hopkins. “My campaign has received very enthusiastic support around the city and we will move forward with excitement to tell our story to the voters.”
“As I travel around Cranston, voters have been excited that I am running for mayor and want to insure responsible and mature leadership in City Hall come January," he added.
“I am honored to have the support of Mayor Allan Fung and I look forward to continuing his outstanding record of accomplishment in keeping Cranston the best city in Rhode Island," said Hopkins.
In reviewing the meeting results, Hopkins said, “When I entered the race very late in the season, I knew many members of the party had already committed to another candidate. I respect their decision to maintain their commitment and look forward to having their support following our victory in September.”
On the Democratic side, Maria Bucci faced Councilman Steve Stycos and the party made no endorsement.
"The City Committee’s decision is disappointing,” said Bucci. “With Cranston being controlled by Republicans, it is critical that the Democratic Party unites. My campaign is about listening and bringing people together. I will work hard to earn the support of Cranston voters, because I know that together, we succeed.”
Bucci’s Campaign Manager Erich Haslehurst added, “It’s time to move on from this style of politics and focus on breaking the last glass ceiling in Cranston by electing a strong woman to the Mayor’s office. Maria Bucci will bring new energy and leadership to both the Democratic Party and City Hall when she is elected Mayor.”
Stycos issued no statement.