Rep. Frank Ferri puts out feelers for Lt. Gov. race

Posted 5/8/14

State Representative Frank Ferri (D-22), who won his first bid for elective office in a special election following the resignation of Peter Ginaitt in August 2007, sent ripples through the political …

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Rep. Frank Ferri puts out feelers for Lt. Gov. race

Posted

State Representative Frank Ferri (D-22), who won his first bid for elective office in a special election following the resignation of Peter Ginaitt in August 2007, sent ripples through the political waters Tuesday with the announcement he is weighing a run for lieutenant governor.

“I’ve been greatly encouraged and humbled by those who’ve approached me about exploring a run for lieutenant governor. There’s a lot at stake for Rhode Island in this coming election. Our next lieutenant governor must be a strong advocate for entrepreneurs and job creators; protect the critical health care reforms shepherded by Lt. Governor Roberts; and speak truth to power when government isn’t acting in the best interest of all Rhode Islanders,” Ferri said in a statement sent out by Ray Sullivan of Checkmate Consulting Group.

Sullivan said yesterday that response “has been positive.” He said those supporting Ferri believe “they can build the appropriate resources” to conduct a successful campaign.

Ferri, who was busy at a meeting of the House Finance Committee yesterday and then the session at the House, could not be reached for comment.

In his release, Ferri said, “I never expected to hold public office. As a small business owner and organizer, I ran for a seat in the Assembly because we needed good people to step up and serve. I felt I couldn’t ask someone else to do something I wasn’t willing to do myself, and with the help of many we built a winning grassroots organization that has created significant, positive change over the last seven years.

“I wouldn’t be considering this position if I didn’t think I could make a difference, and so Tony and I will continue to explore this unique opportunity to serve over the coming days and weeks. We look forward to making a formal announcement at the appropriate time.”

Ferri became involved in politics because of his support for marriage equality. Sullivan said Ferri has been considering a run for the post over the last month.

A Democrat, Ferri would face Ralph Mollis and Daniel McKee in a September primary if he was to run. Mollis, now Secretary of State, faces a term limit and cannot seek reelection.

Comments

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  • RichardLangseth

    Frank would be a great candidate. He could continue Gov. Robert's important work in the health care field and keep Warwick's needs in front of the new governor no matter who he/she is.

    Friday, May 9, 2014 Report this

  • JohnStark

    Time to wake up, taxpayers. You don't need all the government for which you are paying. RI needs a lieutenant governor like a fish needs golf clubs. It's well past time to mercifully do away with the office and the various aids, assistants, and other trough feeders that go with it. Bonus points for those who can name RI's greatest lieutenant governors.

    Friday, May 9, 2014 Report this