Rhode Island elections: Dems’ top pick vs GOP’s upset hopeful

Rhode Island Voters Choose Gabriel Amo​ and Gerry ⁣Leonard ‌for Special Election

Rhode Island voters have made their selection ⁤for the upcoming special election to represent ‍them in the United States House of Representatives. Former ‍Democratic​ White House ⁣staffer Gabriel Amo and Republican political newcomer Gerry Leonard emerged as the primary winners and will now compete for the vacant seat left by former Rep. David Cicilline (D-RI).

Amo, who served in the White House Office ⁢of Intergovernmental Affairs during two ‍presidential administrations, won the crowded Democratic primary for the open seat. If elected, he would become the first person⁣ of color to ⁤represent Rhode Island‌ in Congress. Leonard, a Marine​ Corps veteran with​ 30 years of service, ‍secured the Republican nomination and aims to be the first Republican to represent the state’s 1st Congressional District in three decades.

Meet the Candidates:

1. Gabriel‍ Amo

   Amo first served in the White House ‌under former President Barack Obama as a staffer for the Intergovernmental Affairs ⁤Office. During⁣ his tenure, he worked closely with state leaders and mayors to address local challenges, including healthcare issues. Amo later returned to ⁢Rhode Island and served as the director ​of public engagement and community​ affairs ​under Governor Gina Raimondo. Currently, he holds the position of deputy director of the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs and special assistant to President Joe Biden.

2. Gerry Leonard

   Leonard, a retired Marine Corps colonel, brings⁣ extensive military experience to his campaign. Throughout his 30-year career, ⁤he served in various overseas deployments and faced combat in Kuwait, Somalia, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Leonard’s message emphasizes putting ⁣principles before politics and prioritizing service to the state. As a father of four, he understands the challenges faced⁤ by Rhode Island families and believes in ​empowering⁢ individuals over government intervention.

The special election, scheduled for November ⁣7, 2023, will determine who will represent Rhode Island’s ‌1st Congressional District. Amo is favored in the predominantly blue district, while Leonard aims ⁣to secure a Republican victory after three decades. The outcome of ‌this election will shape the future of⁣ Rhode Island’s representation ⁣in Congress.

Click here to read more from The Washington ‌Examiner.

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