Top 10 of 2010: Moderates, Tea Party and Helen Glover

Top 10 of 2010: Moderates, Tea Party and Helen Glover

The political world changed in Rhode Island in 2010 with the emergence of powerful and influential alternative political movements. Fueled by dissatisfaction with the two party system, two powerful forces came forward – the Moderate Party and the Tea Party.

While both failed to meet their goals, they had a tremendous effect on the political dialogue and the outcomes of the election. Many have asserted that if the Moderate Party had not been formed, GOP candidate John Robitaille, a fiscal conservative, would be Governor rather than progressive independent Linc Chafee.

Chris Little’s run as a Moderate Party candidate undermined GOP Erik Wallin and ensured Peter Kilmartin’s win.

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The Tea Party got its boost from WHJJ talk show host Helen Glover and by riding her airtime was able to attract and engage disgruntled conservatives and Libertarians.

Both parties' 2010 impact was significant in many ways and their ability to sustain will determine their long-term viability in getting their candidates elected.