Morales wins Providence mayoralty; Matos and Diossa retain state roles

David Morales defeated incumbent Mayor Brett Smiley in Tuesday's primary election.

The result makes Morales the youngest person to hold the mayoral office in Providence. He joined two other Hispanic candidates who were projected as winners in their respective races.

Sabina Matos was projected to win the vice-gubernatorial race. This victory would mark her second term in that role. James Diossa of Colombian origin was also projected to continue as state treasurer.

Morales spoke about his background while addressing supporters. He noted that he grew up with a single mother who emigrated from Mexico.

He said the high cost of housing and immigration issues remain difficult for many immigrant families. Morales stated he is ready to fight for those families as a young Latino leader.

Matos discussed the value of representation during her remarks. She said young people show emotion when they see someone who looks, speaks, and has an accent similar to their own in a position of influence.

Matos recalled that people often say they cannot be what they do not see. She noted that seeing someone like them in office encourages young residents to believe they can achieve similar goals.

The candidates emphasized the growing presence of Hispanic leaders in Rhode Island politics. Beyond Providence, more than half of the city councils in Pawtucket and Central Falls are also of Hispanic origin.

The victories place Hispanic officials in some of the state's most prominent political roles. These outcomes follow a period of increased electoral participation among Latino voters in the state.