3 New Candidates Announce for Soon to Be Vacant RI Congressional Seat

3 New Candidates Announce for Soon to Be Vacant RI Congressional Seat

 

The number of announced candidates to succeed outgoing Congressman David Cicilline is growing.

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Three new candidates have announced their candidacy to run for the first congressional seat.in the past few days.

In February, Cicilline announced that he is stepping down from his seat in Congress to take over the position as the head of the Rhode Island Foundation and collect a salary of $650,000 for the group dedicated to supporting those in need.

Last week, Democrat Nick Autiello, a Providence resident, announced his campaign.

“I got into public service almost a decade ago to help rebuild Rhode Island after decades of decline that hurt families like mine, and as part of Governor Raimondo’s Commerce team I did just that. From working the overnight shift in the hospitality industry to working tirelessly to rebuild our state and address climate change with partners around the world, I have the experience to be a member of Congress who is in touch with Rhode Islanders’ needs and has the proven ability to work on tough issues and get results,” said Autiello in his announcement.

Auttiello came under fire previously he claimed he worked on Raimondo's personal staff, but that was not true. Earlier in his political career, Autiello had supported Rudy Guilliani for President.

Nathan Biah also announced he was running. He is a Liberian refugee, Providence high school principal, and State Representative,

“I have students trying to learn while coping with housing and food insecurity,” said Biah. “Other students are struggling with ongoing mental health, the trauma of gun violence or are terrified of deportation because they’re an undocumented immigrant. In my district I have elderly community members wondering how they will afford much needed medications and health care. I’ve been on the frontlines of these issues as a principal and State Representative. I’m running for Congress to fight for big, bold, solutions to these major issues.” 

And the third politician to jump into the race is Providence City Councilor John Goncalves. He announced Monday Tweeting, “Today, I’m honored to announce my candidacy for Congress, right here in Rhode Island’s 1st Congressional District.”

He had recently been in the spotlight for his change of position on a proposal for the issuance of a liquor license. He opposed, then supported, the proposed liquor license application in Wayland Square near a school -- and now, after GoLocal raised questions, he says he is undecided. 

Previously declaring to run are RI Lt. Governor Sabina Matos and State Senator Sandra Cano - she represents Pawtucket.