Voters head to the polls as Hopkins, Fenton-Fung face off in Cranston GOP primary

CRANSTON, R.I. (WLNE) — Thousands of Cranston voters made their way out to the polls today, voting for the future of Rhode Island’s second-largest city.

The major race in this primary is the mayoral race, between incumbent Ken Hopkins and challenger, Rep. Barbara Ann Fenton-Fung.

Both teams have been on the offensive, trading barbs regarding voting records and party credibility.

“It was a very, very difficult campaign. It became personal, and it hurt. To know that we were friends in the past, and then to see what they were trying to do to destroy my character. But I kept my composure and I continue to be the mayor of the city and I plan on being the mayor for 4 more years,” said Hopkins.

Fenton-Fung said the door is always open if Hopkins wants to bury the hatchet moving forward.

“This is a campaign to really come in and restart Cranston, and I’m just so grateful for everybody’s support and we’re really looking forward to the next four and perhaps even eight years here in Cranston,” she said.

“We’re going to keep a real big, open door policy and we’re going to try and get together at some point too. But he’s got some major legal issues, I think over the next few months and weeks, so that’ll be up to him whether he wants to embrace the future, but I’ll leave that one up to him. The doors always open on our end,” she added.

Whoever wins the primary will go on to face democratic candidate and current city Councilor Robert Ferri.

Voters who made their way out are looking at several key issues, including housing and the ongoing work on the Budlong Pool.

“Well, the negativity that goes on is really outrageous. Because I want to hear people talk about what they’re going to do for the city or the country, not negativity. I want to hear solutions, not problems,” said voter, Kevin Dwares.

“People do what they have to do to try and reach the public. When it comes down to, I think Kenny’s done a great job for the city of Cranston and I think he can continue to do so,” said voter, Alan Caruolo.

Both candidates are confident and looking ahead to results.

Polls will remain open until 8 p.m.

Fenton-Fung said she plans to watch the results in Garden City, while Hopkins said he plans to watch from St. Mary’s Fest Societies Hall.