RI Favorites - Gordon Fox Endorses David Cicilline in Exclusive Video

RI Favorites - Gordon Fox Endorses David Cicilline in Exclusive Video

No one thought he would answer the question.

But when the Speaker of the House sat with GoLocalProv's Tracey Minkin to tape a short series of video interviews in late April, Minkin asked the question anyway: Who was the Speaker endorsing for the First Congressional seat being vacated by Patrick Kennedy?

Relaxed and candid, the speaker said on-camera he'd be endorsing David Cicilline. It was an unplanned endorsement, far earlier in the campagin than anyone expected (party leaders rarely endorse before a primary is over). Because of its surprise, strength, and news value, it gave the nascent campaign the Providence mayor was setting into place an enormous jump-start. Some commentators think it made Cicilline

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viable in a variety of Democratic circles he may never have penetrated, particularly in a crowded and contentious Democratic primary field.

RIers loved the revelation, and that it happened not on a planned weekend show, or staged in a political location. It felt fresh and new, and it signaled a change in how politics could be covered in Rhode Island, and how short, spontaneous video could play a central, vibrant role.

To watch Gordon Fox's surprise endorsement, go here.