Meet the candidates running for Rhode Island’s open 1st Congressional District seat

Gabe Amo: Commitment to service

Party: Democrat

Age: 35    

Residence: Providence

Personal: The son of Ghanaian and Liberian immigrants, Gabe Amo grew up in Pawtucket. His mother is a nurse and his father is a small business owner. 

Education: Graduate of Moses Brown School in Providence and Wheaton College magna cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa, where he was Student Government Association president and received a Truman Scholarship for public service. After graduating, Amo received a Marshall Scholarship to study public policy at Oxford. 

Career: Amo’s commitment to service inspired him to work in both the Obama and Biden White House, and former Gov. Gina Raimondo. Under President Obama, he worked in the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs. Appointed by Raimondo to serve as her director of public engagement and community affairs. Most recently was special assistant to the president and deputy director of intergovernmental affairs as President Biden’s principal liaison to mayors and local elected officials.

Political bio: First run for public office.

Why are you the best candidate in this crowded race?

When I worked in the Biden White House, I was the first call on behalf of the President to communities devastated by extreme weather or a mass shooting; I offered the condolences of the Administration and an immediate, problem-solving response so that they could begin rebuilding and healing their community. Congress needs more leaders who have the experience of delivering solutions to the pressing needs of their constituents. Additionally, I led advocacy and implementation on President Biden’s historic legislative agenda, including working with state and local leaders across the country to deploy those investments in our people and places, including infrastructure, gun violence prevention, fighting climate change, and economic opportunity. I want to take this experience to the halls of the U.S. Congress to work for Rhode Islanders. We need a congressperson who understands how to get things done in Washington and deliver on behalf of our state and its people. 

What about your lived experience qualifies you to serve the diverse population of CD1?

Even when I’ve worked in Washington, I’ve always been a Pawtucket guy at heart. I like to refer to Rhode Island as the center of the universe, because for me, it is. Most of my family still lives in Rhode Island. I grew up in a working-class neighborhood of Pawtucket with people from all sorts of backgrounds, whether they were second or third generation Irish or Portuguese, or recently arrived Cape Verdeans or Liberians. I spent many summers working in my dad’s store, and that firsthand experience of providing customer service to people of different backgrounds is something that will serve me well as a member of Congress. As part of my work in government, I’ve had to build coalitions and bring people together, from the business community to labor unions to cities and towns across the state and around the country, which prepares me for the type of work we must do in Congress to build bridges and get things done. Diversity makes our communities stronger, and it is crucial that we elect leaders who reflect that diversity. Ultimately, while I would be honored to make history as Rhode Island’s first congressperson of color, I am more focused on making a difference in the lives of the people I love most in the world – the people of Rhode Island.

If elected, you would become the most freshman legislator in a 435-person chamber. What would you do to work with other representatives to promote Rhode Island’s priorities?

My whole career, on behalf of presidents and a governor, has been about collaborating with diverse groups of leaders and interests to get things done. One of the projects that I worked on in the White House that I am most proud of is helping to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). As the President’s principal liaison to mayors across the country, I spent lots of time on the phone strategizing with local leaders to help them convince their federal delegations to support the BIL. As President Biden likes to say, there are no Democrat roads or Republican bridges; there are roads and bridges. We need to appeal to each other’s common interests and values. Good-paying jobs, safe communities, and providing a good education to our children are things that most people can agree upon. For example, one of the lead sponsors on the bill in the House that would expand background checks for gun purchases is Republican Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania. So, I would make it my mission to work with whomever I can to get things done for Rhode Island, and when necessary, stand up to the extreme factions of the Republican party to protect against any harmful attacks, especially on programs like Social Security and Medicare and a woman’s right to choose.

Stephanie Beauté: Tech leader with fresh vision

Party: Democrat

Age: 37  

Residence: North Smithfield

Personal: Raised by a single mother of four children; has daughter, Luna, and 13-year old Labrador Dasha.

Education: Gilbert Stuart Middle School, Hope High School, University of Rhode Island. Received Master of Science degree in Information Systems at University of Maryland Baltimore County.

Career: Senior product manager in software while juggling program manager role.

Political bio: Stephanie Beauté lost the 2022 Democratic primary for Rhode Island Secretary of State to Gregg Amore

Why are you the best candidate in this crowded race?

For over 20 years, Rhode Island has consistently ranked lowest in various measures of growth and progress. This unfortunate reality can be attributed to a lack of vision and a stifling political environment that has hindered our potential. It is time for a change. We have seen the same faces presenting themselves as champions, yet our small businesses continue to suffer. Career politicians dominate the landscape, while families struggle to make ends meet. It begs the question: If these candidates can raise hundreds of thousands of dollars, why haven’t they invested it into the communities they claim to care about? It is time for a new course of action. Rhode Island needs a leader with a fresh vision and a commitment to tackling the challenges that have plagued us for far too long. Together, we can build a brighter future for our state, one that prioritizes the needs of our communities and empowers our small businesses. In a world where AI and Machine Learning are rapidly advancing, and where crime rates continue to be a concern, I can address these issues head-on. I understand the importance of investing in education as a means of eradicating poverty. I also recognize the significance of supporting our trades and creating more union jobs to strengthen our economy. But I bring more to the table than just talking points and eloquent speeches. I am a hardworking individual who is committed to serving the people of Rhode Island. 

What about your lived experience qualifies you to serve the diverse population of CD1?

My fellow Rhode Islanders, as we approach the crucial moment of decision, we are at a pivotal juncture in our history, and we need a representative who will be a fierce advocate for our community. Together, we can shatter glass ceilings and pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. I believe in the power of our collective voice, and I will fight relentlessly for women’s rights, equality, and justice for all. I am the woman for the job, a champion of progress, and an unwavering force for change. Creating good-paying jobs is the bedrock of a thriving economy, and I will work tirelessly to bring new opportunities to our district while supporting our small businesses to flourish. Housing is not a luxury; it is a fundamental right. I will tirelessly strive to ensure affordable housing options for all, fight against gentrification, and address homelessness in our community. Rhode Island, it is time for our voices to be heard, for our values to be represented and for our dreams to be realized.

If elected, you would become the most freshman legislator in a 435-person chamber. What would you do to work with other representatives to promote Rhode Island’s priorities?

Working every day with different personality types and backgrounds, I understand the importance of fostering a spirit of collaboration. With a staunch commitment to negotiation, I have a proven ability to effectively achieve actionable solutions for everyday citizens. My top priority is delivering them value. Not only do I possess a background in software development, but I have also had the opportunity to meet and interact with different members of the House of Representatives. This experience has reinforced my belief in the power of collaboration and respect in achieving common goals. With my expertise and dedication, as the newest team member in the chamber I will make a significant impact in our pursuit of delivering innovative solutions.

Walter Berbrick: Putting the best interests of the people and our country first

Party: Democrat

Age: 39   

Residence: Middletown

Personal: Son of a cook and cashier, Walter Berbrick grew up working in his family’s restaurant; he and his wife Laurie have two children, Aubrey and James; and a Jack Russell, Lola.

Education: Saint Peter’s University; earned master’s degree from Salve Regina University.

Career: After the 9/11 attacks, joined the U.S. Navy while bartending and earning his graduate degree. As a naval intelligence officer, Berbrick managed classified intelligence programs and worked to counter violent extremism. As a professor at the U.S. Naval War College, he brought together world leaders to analyze threats and develop real world solutions to keep people safe from authoritarian governments and climate change. While working full-time, he earned his doctorate in law and policy from Northeastern University. At the State Department and Pentagon, his leadership resulted in new policies and strategies to mitigate and respond to climate change. As a community volunteer leader with the American Red Cross, he delivered food and shelter to Newport residents affected by the 2019 gas leak and lifesaving COVID-19 vaccines to Providence and Pawtucket residents. 

Why are you the best candidate in this crowded race?

I am the only candidate with real world experience — from the local level to the global level — bringing people together to reach common ground on practical solutions to protect our country and community from authoritarian governments, extremism, and climate change. At the U.S. Naval War College, I brought together leaders from our military, intelligence community, interagency, and Congress, as well as our Allies and to analyze threats and develop real solutions to prevent war. At the State Department under President Obama, I helped world leaders reach common ground on the world’s first international agreement on scientific cooperation. At the Pentagon, I was asked by the Secretary of the Navy to lead the development of the Department of the Navy’s first strategy for the Arctic region. As a community volunteer with the American Red Cross, I understand firsthand the challenges facing Rhode Islanders across the 1st District. I resigned from 15 years of federal service to run for Congress — without personal wealth, political connections, or corporate PAC money — because I fundamentally believe that I have an obligation to continue serving and fighting for you. As your representative in Congress, I have the experience to hit the ground running on day one — and I will.

What about your lived experience qualifies you to serve the diverse population of CD1?

As a U.S. Navy veteran, career civil servant and educator, and Red Cross volunteer, I’ve spent the past two decades bringing people together from all walks of life to deliver real results for all Americans — and that’s what I’ll continue to do in Congress. I’m going to do this the only way I know how: by always listening, staying honest, working hard, and putting the best interests of you — the people — and our country first. If we’re going to create good paying jobs, restore Roe v. Wade, end gun violence in America, tackle climate change, and preserve our democracy, then it’s absolutely critical that we elect leaders who have a record of solving big problems for all Americans and putting our country and community above themselves. That’s what I’ve done my entire career and that’s what I’m going to do as your representative in Congress. 

If elected, you would become the most freshman legislator in a 435-person chamber. What would you do to work with other representatives to promote Rhode Island’s priorities?

Bringing real change back home to Rhode Island starts and ends with collaboration, honest conversations, and building meaningful relationships with members of both houses and parties. I’ll do this five ways. It starts with actively seeking to understand the values, priorities, and concerns of other legislators, both within and beyond the Democratic party. Through open dialogue and active listening, I can identify common ground and areas where our goals align. Second, I will actively participate in relevant committees and caucuses to immerse myself in the legislative process so I can directly align and shape Rhode Island’s priorities. Third, I will work hard on building bipartisan coalitions to reach common ground and achieve progress in mutual areas of interests. Fourth, I will make it a point to establish relationships with representatives from other states who share similar interests or challenges to us here at home in Rhode Island. Finally, I will make transparency and persistent engagement with Rhode Islanders my top priority. Listening to your concerns and needs and keeping you informed about my actions and decisions is the only way I can serve and represent you in Washington.

Sandra Cano: Local and state level experience

Party: Democrat

Age: 39 

Residence: Pawtucket

Personal: Born in Medellin, Colombia, Sandra Cano moved to the U.S. with her family in 2000 under political asylum. She lives with her fiancé, James, their daughter, Arianna Hallel, and their son, Alessandro James.

Education: Educated in the Pawtucket School System and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Management and Economics from Bryant University (2007) and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration at the University of Rhode Island (2012). She attended the Harvard Kennedy School where she completed multiple executive leadership programs in 2016.

Career: Director of commerce for the city of Pawtucket where she is responsible for working with the city’s business community, with a focus on collaborating and providing assistance to local small businesses. Currently on a leave of absence to run for Congress. Previously worked as the assistant vice president of community development at Navigant Credit Union, where she developed community-based partnerships and financial education campaigns for low-income and diverse populations. 

Political resume: Democrat elected to the Rhode Island Senate in a special election in 2018 representing District 8 (Pawtucket); first Latina chair of the Senate Committee on Education; member of the Senate Committee on Finance and the Permanent Joint Legislative Commission on Child Care. Served on Pawtucket City Council from 2014-2018 and Pawtucket School Committee from 2012-2014; previously appointed member of the Pawtucket Juvenile Hearing Board. 

What makes you the best candidate in this crowded race?

Today, Congress is full of members who don’t know what it’s like to start with nothing and have to work hard to make ends meet every month. They simply don’t have the perspective to really understand how much people in our country are struggling. As a result, ideas are compromised to create policies that continue to stack the deck against working people. I believe in the promise of our country – but for too long, and for too many, it has been an empty promise. I want you to believe, as I do, that anything is possible through hard work and determination. I will continue working hard to ensure that we all have a great future ahead – for our children, our families, our seniors, and for future generations. I am the only candidate with experience at every legislative level of government in Rhode Island — from the Pawtucket School Committee, to the Pawtucket City Council, and now in the State Senate. I have a strong record of building coalitions to pass meaningful and substantive policy. My approach to government is always to debate the issues and not make it personal. We need more of that in Congress.

What about your lived experience qualifies you to serve the diverse population of CD1?

My lived experiences have shaped my values and my vision as a policymaker and democratic lawmaker. I am a fierce advocate for gun safety, because I have witnessed gun violence. I defend public education, because it has allowed me to pursue the American Dream. I fight for reproductive freedom, because I know that women should make their own decisions about their bodies. I work hard on immigration, because I have been through the process myself. I am a champion for racial justice and cultural inclusivity, because I live under the cloud of bias every day. And, I fight for environmental justice in the face of the climate crisis, because it threatens every aspect of our lives – and I worry about the world my children will inherit. I am running for Congress because I care deeply about helping people. I will always carry with me the voices of my community, and advocate on behalf of working people. Because it’s going to take one of us – to make a difference for all of us.

If elected, you would become the most freshman legislator in a 435-person chamber. What would you do to work with other representatives to promote Rhode Island’s priorities?

We need someone who will prioritize Rhode Islanders and move away from the divisiveness that is plaguing our country. Our democracy is more fragile than ever: voting rights, women’s and LGBTQ+ rights, and social safety nets like Medicare and Social Security are under attack. The issues we face are deeply personal to me: rampant gun violence, educational inequities, healthcare injustice, and more. The climate crisis and chaotic weather patterns are threatening our coastline, economy, and public health. Inflation and stagnant wages impact working families like mine – leaving folks to choose between paying their bills or feeding their families. We have a Congress that no longer talks to each other – and we’re the ones who suffer. We need to do better. We have a Congress that no longer talks to each other – and the ones who suffer for it are all the rest of us. That is why I am running for Congress!

Don Carlson dropped out of the race on Aug. 27

Party: Democrat

Age: 62    

Residence: Jamestown

Personal: Father of three children: Katie, 26, a primary school teacher in Maine; Jake, 24, recently graduated from the University of Richmond and lives in New Jersey; Ella, 21, is a rising junior at Colby College in Maine. Dog dad to Bodhi, a 5 year-old golden retriever and certified therapy dog. 

Education: B.A. from Williams College; J.D. from Harvard Law School.

Career: Don Carlson is the senior executive director of The Tsai Leadership Program at Yale Law School; served as a director of many high-growth companies in business services, technology, and renewable energy. Led two successful growth-stage companies as CEO, headed the financial services division at Axiom Legal, and more recently joined with other active early-stage investors to launch Rubicon Venture Capital. Clerked for the Hon. Bruce M. Selya on the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit.

Political bio: First run for public office. Served as Legislative Director for Congressman Joseph P. Kennedy II of Massachusetts and as Chief of Staff for Congressman James A. Himes of Connecticut. 

What makes you the best candidate in this crowded race?

I love this state. I spent my childhood here and went to public schools here. My first job was scooping ice cream at a Newport Creamery in downtown East Greenwich. I worked at Camp Yawgoog for a long time because my family and I were active in the Boy Scouts. I know folks in this state have some big issues with the way government has been run and how it is performing (or not performing) for them, so that’s why I am really excited to run to represent us all in Washington — I am looking forward to making my home state proud. I think my experience sets me apart. I am passionate about solving human-induced climate change and I’ve invested in companies that are developing new green-energy technologies to do just that over the last couple of decades. I also have a lot of experience in the private sector in negotiation, looking for common interests that bring people together. In addition to that, I have already worked in the House of Representatives for two different members of Congress. I understand how the House works from the inside so I know what it takes to do the job and I am ready to hit the ground running on day one. 

What about your lived experience qualifies you to serve the diverse population of CD1?

As the only gay candidate in the race, I have a deep understanding of how it feels to be part of a marginalized community. So many people who live in our district are in need of representation in Congress from people who will prioritize intentionally making space for them at the table. The levers of power have been held too long by a small sliver of people who benefit immensely from the privilege that the patriarchy and white supremacy afford them. These oppressive systems leave out people of color, the LGBTQ+ community, women, immigrants, and so many other people who are otherwise locked out of the proverbial room where it happens. I know firsthand how important it is that members of Congress have lived experiences and a passion for change that reflects the people they represent. David Cicilline was a fierce advocate for the people of CD1, especially his representation in Congress as an openly gay man and I am looking forward to continuing that legacy for Rhode Island. 

If elected, you would become the most freshman legislator in a 435-person chamber. What would you do to work with other representatives to promote Rhode Island’s priorities?

Although I will be the most junior member of Congress in November, I have spent almost my entire career in leadership and negotiation and I am confident that I have the experience and tools necessary to find common ground with my fellow Democrats and with people across the aisle. I know that there are honest and decent Republicans who want to do good work on behalf of the American people that they swore an oath to represent. I plan to put my skills to good use and work together to get the job done for people across this country. In Rhode Island we have the potential to be the clean energy hub for the nation and this is something that I am passionate about to my core. Not only are green energy technologies good for the planet, but this is an industry that will create an abundance of high paying union jobs for Rhode Islanders. When I am in Congress, this is something I will work toward tirelessly. 

Spencer Dickinson: Experience in business and politics

Party: Democrat

Age: 79

Residence: Wakefield

Personal: Married over 50 years with two sons, two daughters and nine grandchildren. Eight years as a resident of the 1st Congressional District.

Education: BA, Harvard University, 1966

Career: Worked in Johnny Moll’s garage and learned to grease cars and work the tire machine. Survived a competitive college. Worked in computer systems for Prudential Insurance and then Citizens Bank. Enlisted in the Army and served with 241st Military  Intelligence and 5th Infantry Division (Mechanized). Started own business as a home-builder. Built the first solar-heated house and developed a way to sell design and components to other builders. Invested in real estate.

Political bio: Spencer Dickinson served 12 years in the Rhode Island Legislature. Four years as Deputy Majority Leader. Worked in many political campaigns. 

What makes you the best candidate in this crowded race?

I believe my experience in politics and legislation are more extensive than that of any of the other candidates. My time working for large corporations gives me an understanding of economics and business. Owning and running my own business gives me confidence in my ability to overcome obstacles and get things done. Time in military intel and living abroad give me a hands-on understanding of national-level issues.

What about your lived experience qualifies you to serve the diverse population of CD1?

I hope I am not disqualified by being a white male whose great-great-grandfather, a family legend, was born in Beggar’s Bush and baptized in St Mary’s RC Church in Donneybrook and came here to escape persecution as a patriot. My own childhood experience includes living in Mexico from age 2 to age 5. They say I spoke Spanish. You can forget a language if confronted with other languages. In first grade, I was the only white kid. The other kids were Black. For the record, they treated me OK and didn’t seem to mind. I first got to know American kids when I was about 6. I also spent time in the Middle East and North Africa. To an arrival from the Arab world I would say, “Ahalan wa Sahalan.” So, when you try to point out diversity, please don’t complain that I don’t notice.

If elected, you would become the most freshman legislator in a 435-person chamber. What would you do to work with other representatives to promote Rhode Island’s priorities?

I would clarify an agenda of what this state needs. Then I would find out what we have in common, and ask them what their state needs. Then I would shake their hand and buy them a coffee. And talk to them in their own language. All 434 of them. One at a time. Even Republicans.

Terri Flynn: ‘I am not entrenched in the political system’

Party: Republican

Age: 62 

Residence: Middletown

Personal: Terri Flynn and her husband have been married for 33 years, living all of it in Rhode Island — almost 20 years in Newport and the last 13 in Middletown. They have two mortgages, three children, and gave two cats a wonderful life. Their children were educated in public school, home school, and private school. She and her husband have been leaders in local Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts.

Education: Degree in Marketing from San Diego State University. 

Career: Small business owner, managing and maintaining residential buildings she and her husband own. They have four long-term rental units and have done some short-term rentals in the past. 

Political bio: Middletown Planning Board (2017-2018); Middletown Town Council (2018-2022); and Gov. Dan McKee’s 100-Day Transition Committee Education Policy Sub-Group (March-June 2021). While on Town Council, she was Middletown Senior Affordable Housing Committee secretary and Middletown Outreach Sub-Committee co-chair. Also served as council liaison for two years following boards and committees: School Committee, Open Space & Fields, Middletown Prevention Coalition, Aquidneck Island Planning Commission, Beach Commission, Chamber of Commerce, and Middletown Economic Development Advisory Committee.

What makes you the best candidate in this race?

I am running to improve the lives of people. I care about Rhode Island and would like the opportunity to represent the people in the 1st Congressional District. I am a person who connects people and acknowledges each person’s contributions. In every community, the best ideas and solutions come from the people who live there. Elected leaders have a wealth of resources, at their fingertips, in the residents of their communities. My candidacy gives voters an alternative candidate to vote for, a citizen candidate: I am not an attorney; I am not a CEO; I do not have hundreds of thousands of dollars; I am not beholden to a party, or other elected officials. The Middletown voters know I am a leader who listens to citizens; My goal was to walk into the room with my mind NOT made up…so the public meeting discussion and public input at the meeting held as much weight as the docket information provided the week before. I work hard to review, and make clear to the public, all elements of the issues for transparent, data-driven decisions with a win-win perspective. I want to bring that same passion to the federal level, and that’s another reason why I am the best candidate for the voters of CD1.

What about your lived experience qualifies you to serve the diverse population of CD1?

My goal is to help people be heard and encourage public participation. Not to make decisions for the public, but to make decisions with their voice. I believe in term limits and chose not to run in 2022 so there would be a vacant seat for someone else to have a chance to represent the people, and add new voices, fresh energy, and different perspectives to the decision-making conversations. My designation has always been Republican, and I wasn’t going to change it for this campaign for four reasons: 1. Little known fact: Middletown Town Council is a nonpartisan council, so a council candidate’s party is not identified on the ballot. My successful campaigns for Town Council and for collecting signatures for this Special Election ballot, were also nonpartisan. 2. Party labels are becoming blurred and meaningless because the law allows them to be misused as tools to strategize elections; 3. Most best decisions on issues today swing somewhere in the middle; and 4. Because of the first three reasons, maybe it is time voters start looking at the candidates, not the party labels when they vote. The power for change is in the hands of the voters. Voters realize that they are bombarded with special interest messaging from many sources: ground mail, email, texts, TV, radio, social media, yard signs, door hangers, and palm cards. That’s what the big-money war chests buy – lots of media to create name recognition. Voters know this. I hope it is the right time for voters to look past the party label and look more at the person running for office. I am asking voters to vote differently and deliberately.

If elected, you would become the most freshman legislator in a 435-person chamber. What would you do to work with other representatives to promote Rhode Island’s priorities?

I ran for Town Council as an outsider, a fresh voice. I have already shown that I do not just sit in the seat with the title, but I participate in the conversation. Ask anyone who was paying attention to Middletown Town Council. I didn’t just review the issues, I researched them. I asked questions to make sure I understood the issues and spoke up to make sure constituents understood them as well. I will do the same in Congress. When I vote on an issue, I use long-term solution-oriented thinking. I look at what every decision option will look like in five years, 10 years, 30 years, 50 years, and on. If you fail to plan, then you plan to fail. I will absolutely work across the aisle with all 435 members of Congress to learn the outcome scenarios of the decisions that come before Congress. Middletown voters know me as a public servant who works hard and makes data-driven decisions with the voters’ voice. I would like the opportunity to take that passion to Washington. Because my experience as an elected official is nonpartisan based, I am not entrenched in the political system. This will enable me to truly collaborate with other members of Congress for solutions to the issues that are causing people to struggle. I will work with members of Congress for the betterment of Rhode Island and focus on the issues the constituents of CD1 tell me to. I am hoping those include common-sense bipartisan solutions to: social security, the economy, and reducing the cost-of-living.

John Goncalves: Taking a track record in Providence to Washington

Party: Democrat

Age: 32   

Residence: Providence

Personal: A son of immigrants, Goncalves is a lifelong resident of Providence’s East Side neighborhood

Education: B.A. and master’s degree from Brown University

Career: Teacher at the Wheeler School. 

Political bio: Two-term Providence City Councilor representing the East Side and downtown; currently senior deputy majority leader and chairman of the Committee on City Property, Claims and Pending Suits, and State Legislative Affairs. 

What makes you the best candidate in this crowded race?

I’m the best candidate to represent Rhode Island’s 1st Congressional because I’m truly rooted in the community. Unlike many of my competitors, I was born and raised in Rhode Island. I’ve lived in this district for nearly 30 years. I serve this community as a veteran teacher and public servant. I’m proud to have taught hundreds of students and impacted hundreds of families across the state (many of the students that I teach live in places like Barrington, Jamestown, Newport, etc.) Additionally, my track record as a municipal elected official speaks for itself. After being elected in one of the most competitive districts in the state, I hit the ground running to deliver for my constituents. I’ve been the lead sponsor on numerous pieces of legislation that has become law. I’ve brought millions of dollars in funding to the fastest growing district in Providence and Rhode Island. We’ve advanced critical issues including housing, with over 1000+ units built or coming online in the district over the next few years; economic development, with over 600,000 sq ft of life sciences, wet lab, commercial space coming to the district; and environmental justice. I’ve also worked tirelessly to make government work for everyone by solving thousands of constituent service issues on the ground and helping efficiently implement the use of hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funds, including $166 million in COVID relief funds that came into Providence. This kind of experience, in addition to the people on the ground, can’t be replicated by other candidates who have had such a short window to run.

What about your lived experience qualifies you to serve the diverse population of CD1?

First off, I’m a proud product of CD-1. I grew up in a single-parent household so I’ve lived the experiences that some politicians just talk about. I’m running for Congress to be a fierce advocate for the people of Rhode Island. Many people in Rhode Island are struggling; people are worried about education, they are worried about cost of living, housing and jobs, they are worried about health care. They’re worried about reproductive rights. They’re worried about our climate crisis. We need a strong voice in Washington who understands those struggles and is actually going to do something about them. I’ve shown that I can get things done at the local level as a two-term Providence City Councilman, representing the East Side and Downtown. And I’ve accomplished that while working a day job as an elementary school teacher, where I’m lucky enough to inspire the next generation of leaders. My campaign has a strong base on the City’s East Side, which is the strongest and most voter-dense district in this election. We’ve also raised over $150K from mostly in-district supporters by not accepting corporate PAC or fossil fuel fuel money. Our campaign support is not coming from Washington or special interests, it’s coming from small, grassroots supporters in the district because the people of the district should decide who wins this election, not Washington elites.

If elected, you would become the most freshman legislator in a 435-person chamber. What would you do to work with other representatives to promote Rhode Island’s priorities?

It’s what I’ve done at the local level. Being the lead sponsor of dozens of pieces of legislation hasn’t been easy, but I always seek to find common ground. It will be very difficult to pass legislation in a Republican-led House, but we’re committed to authoring and co-sponsoring legislation that puts people first. My most important priority will be bringing federal funding back to Rhode Island. Together, we will fight for funding to maintain our broken state infrastructure, and fund community programs, neighborhood centers, public safety, and more. Other important priorities include addressing our cost of living, education, climate change, and gun violence and issues that affect our children, families and seniors. Our full policy platform can be found: johngforcongress.com.

Sabina Matos: Fighting to protect the American Dream

Party: Democrat

Age: 49  

Residence: Providence

Personal: Sabina Matos came to the United States from Dominican Republic at age 20. Determined to secure the American dream, she worked at a jewelry factory and learned English at night. Lives in Providence husband, Patrick and their two children, Diego and Annemarie.

Education: Graduated from Rhode Island College

Career: Chief of Program Development, State of Rhode Island Department of Administration ODEO/Human Resources Outreach & Diversity Office, 2015-2021;  Associate director, New Roots Providence, 2008-2013.

Political bio: Elected to the Providence City Council in 2010 and served 10 years on the Council. Since 2021, I have served as Rhode Island’s Lieutenant Governor.

What makes you the best candidate in this crowded race?

I have the experience and track record that Rhode Islanders need in Congress. As a community leader, President of the Providence City Council, and now as Rhode Island’s Lieutenant Governor, I have a well-earned reputation for getting things done. I have worked to lower costs and make housing more affordable, I have worked to reduce gun violence and make our communities safer, and I have defended reproductive rights and our personal freedoms. We need leaders in Congress who know how to get things done for Rhode Island.

What about your lived experience qualifies you to serve the diverse population of CD1?

I know the struggles that Rhode Islanders are facing because I face them myself. I am someone who has had to work hard for everything that I have accomplished. From working in a factory and not knowing the language, to being a working single mom during my first campaign for City Council, I know what it means to struggle. I also know that the American Dream is real. I know that, in this country, hard work and determination can be enough to succeed. But we need people in Washington who will fight to make sure that the American Dream is protected from those who seek to undermine our democracy. That’s exactly what I will go to Congress to do.

If elected, you would become the most freshman legislator in a 435-person chamber. What would you do to work with other representatives to promote Rhode Island’s priorities?

Working with others to bring about positive change is what I did for a decade in the Providence City Council and it’s what I have been doing as Lt. Governor. In Congress, I will work with anyone who is serious about making real change on the issues that matter to Rhode Islanders. This includes fighting for our rights and freedoms, including the right to make our own decision when it comes to reproductive health care. This includes the right to bring out kids to schools where we know they are safe and to be in public without worrying about being the victim of a shooting. This includes protecting Social Security and Medicare so that our aging population knows they can spend their lives with dignity and certainty. Finally, this means standing up to those who seek to undermine and destroy our democracy. These are the values that I have fought for my entire career and these are the values that I will fight for in Congress.

Aaron Regunberg: Fighting for ‘real change for our communities’

Party: Democrat

Age: 33   

Residence: Providence

Personal: Wife Katie, son Asa, 2, and their rescue mutt Dottie

Education: 2012 graduate of Brown University, magna cum laude; Harvard Law School, JD, 2022

Career: Founding executive director of nonprofit Providence Student Union that won healthier school lunches, more planning time for teachers, free bus transportation for thousands of kids, and much more. 

Political bio: Elected to serve two terms in Rhode Island House of Representatives Providence District 4 seat. Narrowly lost to Dan McKee in 2018 race for lieutenant governor.

What makes you the best candidate in this crowded race?

We can’t solve the problems we face – lack of housing, gun violence, abortion bans, attacks on unions, the climate crisis, and so much more – by simply electing one more Democratic vote. We need more leaders in Congress – like David Cicilline – who can organize, bring people together, and have a record of winning real progressive change. That’s what’s at stake in this race. In the last few weeks, I’ve been endorsed by national and local leaders who trust me to do this critical work and who know we’re building the strongest campaign in this field. These endorsers include Sen. Bernie Sanders, leaders in the fight for democracy like Congressman Jamie Raskin, Congressional groups like the Congressional Progressive Caucus (the caucus that David Cicilline helped lead), climate and environmental organizations, and more. They know I’ve been doing this work in Rhode Island for many years, and that I’m ready to take these fights to Washington, bring people together to take on special interests, and win real change for our communities.

What about your lived experience qualifies you to serve the diverse population of CD1?

Standing up for families is personal for me. My mother, Erica, was a single mom. My dad died in a plane crash when she was five months pregnant with me and my sister was 2 years old. Now that I’m a parent, I can’t imagine the strength it took for her to raise the two of us on her own. But Rhode Islanders face challenges like these every day. And many don’t have the support we had – like life insurance, survivor’s benefits, and my grandparents, who moved in to help us in those tough early days. So many of my values come from my grandparents. Grandpa Ralph was born in Germany in 1930 and became a refugee from the Nazis. He survived the Holocaust and immigrated to America in 1948, but most of his family didn’t make it. Growing up hearing his stories instilled in me an understanding that our democracy can’t be taken for granted, and that standing up for vulnerable communities is a moral necessity. When Trump was elected, Grandpa Ralph took to the streets – at the age of 87 – which motivated me as I worked to help organize thousands of Rhode Islanders who were looking for ways to resist hate. Though my grandma’s name was Bernice, everyone called her Bunny. But Grandma Bunny wasn’t soft and cuddly – she was a fighter. And she had to be, as executive director of her local Planned Parenthood in the years before Roe v. Wade. She taught me the importance of empowering families to make choices for themselves, and helped inspire me to become a community organizer. Grandma Bunny would be crushed to know that today we are still struggling to secure and defend the abortion rights that she and millions of women spent their lives fighting for. 

If elected, you would become the most freshman legislator in a 435-person chamber. What would you do to work with other representatives to promote Rhode Island’s priorities?

I have a record of being able to work with diverse legislators, including folks I don’t always agree with, to get things done. In Congress, I would remain on the lookout for opportunities for bipartisan action (like David Cicilline’s leadership in organizing a bipartisan House Antitrust Caucus). At the same time, I would organize within the Democratic Caucus to ensure an ambitious agenda was ready to go on Day 1 after we retake the House in 2024. And I would work hard to continue pushing our Democratic Party to be the best version of itself that it can be.