David Morales, a 27-year-old democratic socialist and state representative from Rhode Island, won a significant victory against Providence Mayor Brett Smiley in the Democratic primary. Morales, endorsed by Sen. Bernie Sanders, defeated Smiley by an 8-point margin, achieving 54% of the vote.
Morales expressed his gratitude and determination in his victory speech, which he delivered partly in Spanish. He emphasized that his win defied expectations, successfully challenging big money interests, corporate real estate, and intense attack ads. His triumph could make him the youngest mayor in Providence’s history if he wins the general election.
“Few believed that a 27-year-old democratic socialist could ever take on big money, corporate real estate interests and endless attack ads – and we took them on and we won,” Morales said.
Mayor Smiley, who is 47 years old, faced increasing media scrutiny over his handling of a shooting at Brown University last December. Smiley acknowledged Morales’ victory in his concession speech, expressing pride in his campaign but disappointment with the outcome.
Morales campaigned vigorously on a progressive platform that included proposals to cap rent hikes, expand affordable housing, and increase taxes on polluters and corporate landlords. He received support from Rep. Ro Khanna, former Mayor Jorge Elorza, and several labor unions.
Addressing the issue of rent stabilization, Morales criticized Smiley’s veto of a measure that would have capped rent increases at 4% for certain apartments. The City Council narrowly missed overriding the veto.
“When working people are getting priced out of the city that they love, then we must cap rent increases at 4% every single year,” Morales stated.
Morales plans to contest Republican nominee Dave Talan in November. With no Republican seats on the Providence City Council and a strong Democratic voter base, Morales is a strong favorite. His campaign promotes making Providence a sanctuary for illegal migrants, taking a stand against the Trump administration’s immigration policies.
Morales’ history as Rhode Island’s youngest legislator and one of the youngest Latino legislators in the country adds to his compelling narrative as he continues his political journey.
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