“I find myself thinking of the Black women who, across generations, labored for a democracy that so often refused to see them as whole,” said former Newport City Councilmember Angela Lima.
The BFFI serves as a transparency tool, as many voters do not know where candidates stand on these critical issues because they are not often directly addressed at the town level. Candidate BFFI ratings come for their position on two issues: Reproductive Rights & LGBTQ+ Rights.
A judge who made a career move similar to the one former House speaker now seeks is asked to halt ethics probe
“I find myself thinking of the Black women who, across generations, labored for a democracy that so often refused to see them as whole,” said former Newport City Councilmember Angela Lima.
Advocates are urging Rhode Island lawmakers to pass a state-level Voting Rights Act. The bill was introduced to counter federal efforts to require proof of citizenship to vote. Concerns from the Attorney General’s office and a recent change in House leadership have delayed the bill’s progress.
The Rhode Island Voting Rights Act did not pass during the recent legislative session. Advocates and community organizations lobbied for months in support of the bill. The proposed legislation was designed to protect against voter intimidation and racial gerrymandering. Supporters argued the bill was necessary to protect voting rights at the state level, regardless of federal actions.
Advocates say they were blindsided by the General Assembly’s decision not to bring nonpartisan legislation to the floor for a vote.
Supporters say Rhode Island needs its own voter protections as federal safeguards weaken. Top lawmakers say the bill needs more work and will have to wait until 2027.
