Complaint Against Speaker Shekarchi Dismissed by Rhode Island Ethics Commission

Complaint Against Speaker Shekarchi Dismissed by Rhode Island Ethics Commission

The Rhode Island Ethics Commission voted 5-0 that there is no probable cause to move forward with a complaint filed by the chair of the Rhode Island Republican Party against Rhode Island House Speaker Joe Shekarchi. 

In 2023, the GOP alleged in its complaint that Shekarchi was pushing legislation that overrode local control over zoning to financially benefit his legal client. The complaint was filed by GOP chair Joe Powers.

Shekarchi issued the following statement in response to the Ethics Commission’s decision on Tuesday. 

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“I would like to thank the Ethics Commission and staff for its careful and comprehensive review and its unanimous dismissal of the groundless and frivolous complaint filed against me by the Republican Party.  The Ethics Commission members and staff consistently demonstrated professionalism and adherence to the principles embodied by the Code of Ethics,” said Shekarchi.

"By filing this baseless complaint, the Republican Party attempted to distract me from important priorities like providing safe affordable housing for every Rhode Islander. My resolve could never be shaken. I am pleased this matter has been concluded and look forward to continuing to address the many important issues facing the people of Rhode Island,” Shekarchi added.