Former Raimondo staffer joins race for Rhode Island’s 1st Congressional seat

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — A former Gov. Gina Raimondo staffer is joining the race for Rhode Island’s 1st Congressional seat.

“I got into public service almost a decade ago to help rebuild Rhode Island after decades of decline that hurt families like mine, and as part of Governor Raimondo’s Commerce team I did just that,” said Nick Autiello, a Democrat.

Autiello, a Providence resident, said Rhode Island needs someone in Congress who’s going to protect democracy and women’s rights, build a clean energy future, and create family-supporting jobs.

He said he will continue Cicilline’s “tireless advocacy for equality.”

“Let’s continue sending a new generation to Washington who understands our community, understands what’s at stake for our country, and is ready to fight for the future Rhode Island deserves,” said Autiello.

In addition to serving as a senior aide in Raimondo’s Commerce Department, he served as an aide for Pete Buttigieg’s 2020 presidential campaign and currently works in the green energy economy.

The seat opened after Cicilline said last month he was resigning from Congress this summer to serve as the new president and CEO of the Rhode Island Foundation.

Autiello joins Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos and Sen. Sandra Cano in that race.