WBOB Original Reads

Kevin Willette: Cianci Won A Game He Wasn't Playing

9/10/2014

Kevin Willette

The biggest surprise coming out of primary night is the complete lack of surprises.

The fact that virtual amateurs and novices could predict these races with accuracy six months ago would lead you to believe the candidates moving on to November have some real energy and momentum behind them. However, last night proved that the only candidate who inspires the electorate is a two time convicted felon. Who won't be on a ballot until November.

While last night may appear to be a changing of the guard, with longtime Rhode Island political names Frank Caprio and Ralph Mollis failing in their respective bids, it was Buddy Cianci, Independent candidate for Mayor of Providence, who had the biggest bash of the night.

This raises a number of questions heading into November:

Does any candidate have the charisma to truly inspire a base?

Can Jorge Elorza, who didn't win as soundly as many predicted, possibly beat the most talented politician in the game?

Which issues will take the forefront when two candidates for Governor with similar goals go head to head?

And ultimately, we will learn who has the grip on the Ocean State in 2014: the Old Rhode Island or the New Rhode Island.