EDITORIAL

We endorse McKee, Fung, Guckian, among others

Posted 10/25/22

Making political endorsements is not something we take lightly at this publication. Considering the implications of each race, we strive to take an objective and fact-based approach to deciding who …

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EDITORIAL

We endorse McKee, Fung, Guckian, among others

Posted

Making political endorsements is not something we take lightly at this publication. Considering the implications of each race, we strive to take an objective and fact-based approach to deciding who would be best to serve the people of Rhode Island and the people within our coverage areas.

When discussing our choices for each top state position, numerous considerations come into play. Who has a proven track record of relevant experience, rather than just campaign rhetoric? Who would bring stability in uncertain times, rather than inject unknown chaos into our democratic system? Who has demonstrated a willingness to listen to the people, rather than cater to their political party or the numerous forces they will be forced to interact with upon their assuming of the role? No one candidate is perfect in any of these races and in some we are forced to make judgments based on our own instinct.

We should make it clear that all of these candidates are worthy of you, the voter, doing your own research and finding out which one you believe in the most. These are merely our own interpretations.

For governor, after casting aside third-party candidates who unfortunately don’t have a shot in a system where the two-party system reigns supreme, we are unable to find enough reason or reassurance from Republican challenger Ashley Kalus to override our support of incumbent Dan McKee.

For what McKee lacks in flair and charisma, he has managed to see Rhode Island through a tumultuous moment in history without major scandal or disruptions in day-to-day life. Being thrust into the position by the departure of Gina Raimondo, McKee has done enough to warrant a full term to see out his political vision for the state — which includes a lot of good things, such as a push toward more renewable energy, continuing to advocate for growing economic opportunities such as the Blue Economy and his commitment to protect the reproductive rights of women.

Kalus, while she possesses charisma and a clear vision of her own, provides too much uncertainty in the way of her views that conflict with a majority of Rhode Islanders — including her views on abortion rights and laws intended to curb gun violence.

The race for Lieutenant Governor should hold more significance for all Rhode Islanders, considering how McKee rose to power. In this race, although we are not overly ecstatic about either option, we see Aaron Guckian as more pragmatic and experienced in the areas such as financial expertise that would make for a more effective governor, should such a situation with McKee happen again. While incumbent Sabina Matos has demonstrated a great ability to listen and advocate, we are not sold on her actual governing abilities at this point where we feel comfortable endorsing her for the role.

The Congressional race for Rep. Jim Langevin’s seat has generated much interest. While we think Seth Magaziner has demonstrated good governance in his role as Treasurer, specifically for his advocacy regarding the passage of school bonds that have massively helped in beginning the mountainous effort of fixing our schools, we have more instances in our recent memory that endear us to Allan Fung. Fung has spent many years getting to know the people in this district, and advocating for them, which is to us what the role of a Congressman is more about. We must caution Fung, however, to not forget where he comes from should he be elected and is faced with partisan pressure from Republican colleagues to go along with policies that will undoubtedly be unpopular with a majority of Rhode Islanders. Remember your fellow Ocean State residents’ majority view on women’s reproductive rights.

In the remaining races, we endorse Peter Neronha for Attorney General, Gregg Amore for Secretary of State, and James Lathrop for Treasurer.

endorsements, editorial

Comments

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  • The Berg

    “Remember your fellow Ocean State residents’ majority view on women’s reproductive rights.” Cautioning Mr. Fung isn't good enough. The paper asking readers to suspend their disbelief that Mr. Fung will step out of Republican party lines concerning abortion is disconcerting to say the least.

    Wednesday, October 26, 2022 Report this

  • donald.botts

    McKee didn't have a major scandal? His chief of staff had to resign and he is/was being investigated by the FBI for giving a state contract to his buddy's company.

    Wednesday, October 26, 2022 Report this

  • RELangseth

    In the world of our nation's founders where there were no political parties Mr. Fung might be an okay representative. But he will vote with his Republican leadership or be made totally ineffectual by them. The big deal would be if the vote for President in 2024 were to be thrown into the House, Mr. Fung were still a rep and he voted for a Republican for President casting aside the will of the People of RI. This is all too great a risk. Unfortunately, Mr. Fung has chosen to be a Republican and the Republicans have chosen to throw the Nation into chaos. The people of Rhode Island must vote "No" on Mr. Fung!

    Thursday, October 27, 2022 Report this