PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) – Two traditionally Democratic-aligned groups have joined forces to defeat Rhode Island’s Democratic House Speaker as he runs for state representative against a Republican opponent.
The Public’s Radio reports the Rhode Island Coalition Against Gun Violence and the state chapter of the National Organization for Women announced their alliance to defeat House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello on Wednesday.
Their new group, called Citizens for a Corrupt-Free RI, says in a press release Mattiello’s “loyalty” to lobbyists and campaign donors is interfering with passing legislation that would benefit the majority of residents.
It also cited Mattiello’s hiring of officials who later pleaded guilty to corruption and perjury charges.
Mattiello says his new opponents are “extreme progressive groups.”
He faces Republican Steve Frias in the election Nov. 6.
