Political Profile: Robert Craven, Candidate for State Representative, District 32

Political Profile: Robert Craven, Candidate for State Representative, District 32

Robert E. Craven is a Democratic candidate for State Senate in District 32. Here is what he has to say.

 

1. What do you think is the biggest political issue this campaign season in Rhode Island?

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The biggest political issues this campaign season are individual privacy rights in the wake of the United States Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade as well as gun control.  I am proud to have led the charge in 2019 to codify the protections of Roe v. Wade into Rhode Island law, protecting women’s constitutional rights.  With respect to gun control, we have successfully passed gun safety bills prohibiting the carrying of guns on school property, prohibiting the sale of high-capacity magazines, raising the age to purchase firearms and ammunition, and banning straw purchases of firearms.  While these are “hot button” issues on the campaign trail, I am proud to say that I’ve been a key part in improving our state on these fronts.    

 

2. What do we need to do to improve Rhode Island's economy?

We need to use our budget surplus and the $1 billion dollars of federal stimulus money to create jobs and housing opportunities. This money may be a once in a lifetime chance to “think big” on infrastructure improvements which will drastically improve our communities.   

 

3. What is the greatest challenge facing Rhode Island as a state?

The greatest challenge facing Rhode Island is our education system.  We have struggled with the quality of educational facilities and education in general.  Now we have competing school systems that are funded by government in charter schools. All children deserve a first-rate education.  We must build new schools and repair and modernize others.  We must have a core educational program that is accepted by all school systems. That’s the only way to create a sound future for our children.

 

4. Why are you running for office? What makes you uniquely qualified?

I am running for office because I believe in public service and believe that I am uniquely qualified to represent the people of North Kingstown’s District 32. I served 9 ½ years in the Attorney General’s Office as a public corruption prosecutor prior to entering private practice. I have served in the House of Representatives for 10 years, serving the last 4 years as Chair of the House Judiciary Committee. In that role, I’ve been instrumental in passing bills codifying Roe v. Wade in Rhode Island law, protecting a woman’s right to choose, as well as extensive gun control legislation.  I have the experience to provide the leadership we need in Rhode Island.

 

5. Who is your inspiration?

My inspiration is President John F. Kennedy. His life and presidency inspired several generations of young Americans and I am one of those who benefitted from his example.

 

Biography: http://www.votebobcraven.com/about.html

Campaign website: http://www.votebobcraven.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RepCraven/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RepCraven