NEW: Smiley Challenges Cianci to Debate on Ethics and Good Government

NEW: Smiley Challenges Cianci to Debate on Ethics and Good Government

Providence mayoral candidate Brett Smiley has issued an open challenge to Buddy Cianci. 

"I challenge Mr. Cianci to a debate -- at the time and place of his choosing -- on questions of ethics, government accountability, and the cost of corruption to our city's reputation and economy."

Cianci announced he would seek a return to the mayor's office and run as an Independent this Fall.  

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Cianci pleaded nolo contendre to one charge of assualt with a dangerous weapon and one count of simple assault in 1984, and he was convicted of racketeering conspiracy in 2002, resigning the mayor's office both times.  Smiley believes Providence "can't afford to give him a third shot."

"We are still recovering from the damage inflicted by the widespread and systematic corruption that defined Buddy Cianci's tenure as mayor. There are still businesses weary of locating or expanding in Providence because of our reputation for corruption, and Buddy Cianci is at the heart of it all. After two stints as mayor both ending in felony convictions, Cianci is already trying to rewrite history and understate the harm he did to our city, and it's time we make him answer for what he did -- not to a federal judge, but to the people of Providence."

Smiley is running in the Democratic Mayoral Primary in September.