Primary Day in Rhode Island
By: Rebecca Turco
Email: rturco@abc6.com
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – It’s primary day in Rhode Island and most of the attention is on races for State House seats.
"There are a lot of progressives running against the party regulars and that’s the real contest – whether the Democratic Party will hold," explained Joe Cammarano, political science professor at Providence College.
Because there are Democratic incumbents facing challenges from their own party, the election could affect the composition of the general assembly.
Districts plagued with scandal could potentially see a higher voter turnout, too, Cammarano feels.
In Bristol, former House Finance Chair Ray Gallison resigned from the House earlier this year, amid a federal probe. Voters we caught up with there are demanding change.
The Providence races are another one to keep an eye on, after a year racked with ethical questions. State Rep. John Carnevale, for instance, resigned after the Board of Canvassers determined he doesn’t live in the district he represents. And incumbent State Rep. Anastasia Williams has been criticized for her involvement in a non-profit which received a major state grant.
Most of the State House races are uncontested this year, so that could affect voter turnout. All polling locations are open until 8 p.m.
© WLNE-TV 2016
