Ahead of Election Day, local analyst weighs in on key RI races

November 5, 2018 11:42 pm

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Tuesday is a pivotal mid-term election, as voters decide the balance of power on Capitol Hill, and Smith Hill.

“Well obviously the governor’s race is the topic of the day,” said Rhode Island College professor emeritus Kay Israel.

After a campaign based more on attacks than substance, Israel says Governor Raimondo should win handily, especially with former Republican turned Independent gubernatorial candidate Joe Trillo likely drawing votes away from Republican Allan Fung.

“If it were a two-person race it would certainly be tighter,” said Israel. “Given the situation now, the incumbent has the definite edge.”

Another closely-watched race–House Speaker Nick Mattiello’s re-election bid in Cranston against Republican Steve Frias. 14 House Democrats, and four hopeful candidates, publicly said Monday they won’t support Mattiello as Speaker–in large part because of his handling of sexual harassment allegations against Rep. Cale Keable.

Will that be a swaying factor in Cranston’s District 14?

“Whether it will or not is a good question. Should it? Absolutely. At this point, with that much dissention in the ranks, you’re not voting for the leader. You’re now voting for your representative,” said Israel.

From Smith Hill to Providence City Hall, Israel says the question isn’t whether Mayor Elorza will win over Dee Dee Witman, but by how much.

“Elorza has the edge at this point, there’s no question about it. The thing that I find surprising is how strong Witman seems to be, especially in certain pockets of the Providence area. It’ll be interesting to see whether he barely makes it through, or whether it is the strong showing that one would think he would have had otherwise,” said Israel.

Prof. Israel says he expects Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, as well as Reps. Cicilline and Langevin to have no problem keeping their seats. But national politics surrounding President Trump–particularly issues like immigration and gun control–could impact the margin of victory in each of those races here in Rhode Island.