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Democratic Primary Forum: RI Attorney General

A candidate forum for the 2026 Democratic primary race for Rhode Island Attorney General, featuring:

• Keith Hoffman
• Jason Knight
• Kim Ahern
• Joe Solomon Jr.

Moderated by Bill Bartholomew.

In this episode:
Candidates fielded questions on [topics discussed — e.g., public safety, consumer protection, gun policy, housing enforcement, environmental law, government accountability]. Each candidate laid out their vision for the office and how they'd approach the priorities of the next AG.

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Four Democratic candidates for Rhode Island Lieutenant Governor squared off in a forum moderated by Bill Bartholomew.

The Candidates

Sabina Matos — Incumbent Lieutenant Governor First appointed to the office in 2021 when Dan McKee moved up to governor; won a full term in 2022. Previously served on the Providence City Council, including as council president. Seeking a second full term; has made grocery affordability and housing central to her agenda.

Sue AnderBois — Providence City Councilor, Ward 3 Elected to the council in 2022; left a job at The Nature Conservancy to launch her campaign in November 2025. Cites her work chairing the North Main Street Task Force as a model for bringing stakeholders together on housing and infrastructure issues.

Cindy Coyne — Former State Senator, Barrington Served in the RI Senate from 2015–2023, chairing the Judiciary Committee; a retired State Police lieutenant. First candidate to formally enter the race (June 2025). Points to legislation banning untraceable "ghost guns" as a signature accomplishment.

Xay Khamsyvoravong — Former Mayor/City Councilor, Newport Entered the race in March 2026, the last of the four to join. Brown University grad, RWU law degree, spent 15+ years in banking including as SVP at Webster Bank; earlier was deputy chief of staff to General Treasurer Frank Caprio. Has led in fundraising for much of the race and campaigns on housing, infrastructure, and education investment "without raising taxes on working families."

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Guests: 

Dr. Amy Nunn, CEO, Rhode Island Public Health Institute

Chris Buchanan Director of Public Affairs and State and Local Government Relations with Walmart Stores, Inc

In this episode, we explore the innovative Eat Well, Be Well program in Rhode Island, which successfully leverages public-private partnerships to promote healthy eating among SNAP recipients. Discover how automating incentives at checkout can increase fruit and vegetable consumption, and the potential for these strategies to scale into other areas of health and wellbeing.

Main Topics:

• The origin and goals of the Eat Well, Be Well initiative
• How the program doubles the value of SNAP benefits for produce in retail locations
• The seamless, no-signup approach that simplifies access to healthy foods
• The role of technology in efficient program administration
• Data and impact: how the program benefits thousands of Rhode Islanders
• Strategies for scaling similar incentive models to broader health behaviors
• Future expansion possibilities beyond produce, including active lifestyles
• The importance of cross-sector collaboration in shaping healthier communities

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guests
00:16 - Guest introductions: Chris Buchanan and Dr. Amy Nunn
01:04 - The purpose and history of the Eat Well, Be Well program
01:33 - How the program supports affordability of healthy foods for SNAP recipients
02:10 - Program funding sources and extension through COVID relief dollars
02:55 - Walmart’s involvement: why they joined the pilot program
03:27 - Making healthy shopping affordable and practical
03:57 - Seamless incentive application at checkout
05:11 - Behind the scenes logistics of integrating the program into retailer systems
06:52 - Advice for retailers interested in adopting similar models
09:00 - Evaluation results and program impact on Rhode Island households
09:36 - Reaching vulnerable populations: children and the elderly
11:43 - The potential for expanding incentives to other health behaviors and products
12:19 - The concept of behavioral economics in promoting healthy choices
13:21 - The possibility of broader incentive programs across health and activity sectors
15:00 - Creative ideas for encouraging physical activity through retail and community efforts
16:18 - The importance of partnership among government, private sector, and public health
16:35 - The scalability of incentive programs and future opportunities
17:21 - Final thoughts on collaborative efforts driving community health improvements
18:07 - Closing remarks

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In this episode, Dr. Nelly Burdette, Psy D, shares her journey from healthcare professional to political candidate, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, health equity, and addressing local issues like housing and public trust. Her approach highlights how expertise in public health can reshape legislative priorities at the state level, especially in a diverse district.

Key Topics:

• Nelly Burdette’s background in healthcare and what motivated her to run for State Senate
• The significance of running at the community level versus higher office
• How her public health experience informs her legislative priorities
• The pressing issues in her district: healthcare access, affordable housing, and aging
• Strategies for rebuilding trust and engagement within the community
• The importance of creative solutions to housing shortages, avoiding green space development
• The role of small businesses and local economic health
• The dynamic district of Lincoln, North Smithfield, and North Providence
• Her stance on local legislative support and recent political debates
• The challenge of infrastructure and resource sustainability for new housing projects
• Her motivation for challenging the incumbent and the potential impact on local politics
• The importance of party involvement and tactical campaigning in local races

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction / background and political campaign

02:03 - Why focus on local community engagement over higher offices

04:46 - Support from Democratic groups and her community-based approach

08:25 - Major gaps in healthcare access and affordability in Rhode Island

10:21 - Vision for a better Rhode Island: Health, Aging, and Small Business

13:10 - Creative housing solutions: repurposing abandoned buildings and green space preservation

15:21 - Trust issues in Lincoln and rebuilding community ties

17:46 - The importance of local legislation and community responsiveness

20:06 - Immediate legislative priorities: healthcare and affordable housing initiatives

21:02 - Support for local policies and her stance on key political issues

22:41 - Challenges with housing development on Wilbur Road and sustainability concerns

24:28 - The broader significance of community-level leadership and expertise in governance

26:08 - Final thoughts on running to create meaningful change and the role of political strategy

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Reducing Toxicity in Rhode Island: How Legislation Shifts Pest Control and Wildlife Conservation

In this episode, we explore Rhode Island's recent legislation to restrict dangerous anticoagulant rodenticides—making it the second state in the US to implement such restrictions. Maxwell McFarland, Advocacy Director at the Audubon Society of Rhode Island, shares insights into the legislative process, ecological impacts, and practical alternatives for pest management that protect wildlife and human communities.

Key Topics:

• The significance and impact of Rhode Island’s new pesticide control law
• Historical context: how past bans (DDT, neonictinoids) shaped current regulation
• Challenges and strategies in passing environmental legislation
• The ecological damage caused by anticoagulant rodenticides
• Practical, wildlife-safe alternatives: habitat management, trash containment, and rodent birth control
• The importance of balancing public health, pest control needs, and ecological integrity
• The role of open spaces and habitat preservation in natural pest management
• Community involvement and phased implementation for effective policy adoption
• Broader ecological concerns: insect mass decline and ecosystem health
• Perspectives on urban planning and wildlife conservation—preserving habitat amid development

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: Rhode Island’s new pesticide legislation
00:28 - Why restricting anticoagulant rodenticides matters
01:11 - Historical background: from DDT to neonictinoids
01:40 - The environmental and wildlife impact of rodent poisons
02:24 - The legislative process behind the bill’s success
03:25 - The role of wildlife clinics and evidence of poisoning effects
04:46 - Natural pest control: owl and raptor impacts
05:06 - Practical solutions: substitutes and habitat management
05:40 - Legislative exemptions and pragmatic compromises
06:30 - California’s model and balance between regulation and use
07:21 - Challenges in changing pest control practices
08:05 - The limitations of current alternatives and the push for sustainable solutions
09:05 - Innovations: GIS technology and rodent population tracking
10:27 - Rodent contraceptives as a long-term control method
11:01 - The phased approach: experimentation and community involvement
11:34 - Opportunities for local experimentation and avoiding heavy-handed regulation
12:05 - The importance of community-led pest management strategies
12:47 - Ecosystem health and biodiversity’s role in pest control
13:47 - The ecological role of rats and the limits of extermination
14:16 - Impact of habitat preservation on ecosystem health
14:48 - Supporting wildlife habitats through open spaces
15:46 - The significance of the estuary habitat project in Newport
16:23 - Community discussions around Hazard Road and habitat preservation
16:47 - The balance between development and wildlife conservation
17:17 - The role of advocacy and community input in urban planning
17:44 - Final thoughts: prioritizing wildlife in city development and legislation
18:14 - Closing remarks: the future intersection of climate, ecosystem, and public health

Resources & Links:

• Audubon Society of Rhode Island
• Rhode Island Legislation on Pesticides
• Related historical bans: Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT)
• California’s Wildlife Protection Laws

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This episode explores Rhode Island’s pivotal contributions to American independence, highlighting its unique history, key figures, and ongoing commemorations for the 250th anniversary. Learn why Rhode Island’s self-governance and revolutionary acts are fundamental to understanding the nation’s birth and how the state is celebrating this historic milestone today.Main topics:

• Rhode Island's early role in the American Revolution and its unique self-governance

• Key figures and events, including the Gaspi incident and Stephen Hopkins

• The significance of Revolutionary-era sites and ongoing 250th celebrations

• The importance of acknowledging America’s complex history, including struggles with race and equality

• How Rhode Island’s history informs current conversations about liberty and patriotism

Timestamps: 00:00 - Setting the scene in Bristol and Rhode Island’s revolutionary energy 00:31 - Rhode Island’s role in early American history and revolution 00:44 - Celebrating Declaration of Independence displays and public engagement 01:22 - Public reactions to viewing the Declaration and related documents 03:03 - Starting points for newcomers to Rhode Island’s revolutionary history 03:19 - The Gaspi incident as the first shot in anger and its significance 04:04 - The formation of committees of correspondence and Rhode Island’s leadership in pushback 04:44 - Rhode Island’s unique self-governance under the 1663 Royal Charter 05:40 - Rhode Island’s contributions to the Continental Army and Navy 07:04 - Rhode Island’s 250th programming and celebrations across the state 07:50 - Key historic sites such as Colony House in Newport and the Old State House in Providence 08:50 - Notable figures: Stephen Hopkins, Nathaniel Green, and their roles 10:22 - Recent efforts to include Black history and historic revisionism 11:26 - The importance of confronting all aspects of American history 12:55 - Celebrating the principles of liberty and equality in American history 14:45 - Current initiatives to commemorate and reflect on the nation’s founding principles 15:11 - Closing remarks and upcoming merchandise for the Rhode Island 250 celebrationResources & Links:

• Rhode Island 250

• Rhode Island 250 Merchandise Store

• Rhode Island Black History

Connect with Secretary Greg Amore:

• Rhode Island Secretary of State - LinkedIn

• Twitter

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Building Community and Support for Transgender Individuals: The Story of Transgender Zone

In this episode, Victoria St. Germain shares her inspiring journey from navigating a challenging transition in Rhode Island to founding Transgender Zone — a digital platform transforming how trans people connect, find support, and access vital resources. Her insights highlight the importance of community, resilience, and scaled support systems in the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights and safety.

Key Topics:

• Victoria's experience growing up and transitioning in Rhode Island, including the legal and social challenges faced
• How Rhode Island's unique demographic impacts the trans community’s support network
• The creation and impact of Transgender Zone: resources, community building, and scaling opportunities
• The role of digital communities in providing safety, education, and connection during a global health crisis
• The importance of advocacy, visibility, and platforming trans voices in a hostile legal environment
• Challenges faced as a startup in a mission-driven social enterprise, including funding and growth hurdles
• The urgent need for supportive platforms amid increasing anti-trans legislation and attacks
• Practical advice for allies: how to support and amplify trans voices

Timestamps:

00:00 — Introduction to Victoria St. Germain and her work with Transgender Zone
 02:08 — Victoria’s personal experience growing up as a trans person in Rhode Island
 04:00 — Unique advantages and disadvantages of transitioning in Rhode Island
 04:56 — The motivation behind creating Transgender Zone and its early development
 06:03 — Features of Transgender Zone: community, live coaching, educational modules
 06:32 — How the platform fosters a diverse, supportive trans community
 07:27 — Scaling plans and ambitions for Transgender Zone to reach more trans individuals globally
 08:41 — The importance of digital spaces in post-COVID support and healthcare access
 09:53 — Challenges faced in starting and growing the platform amid legal and political threats
 11:19 — The resilience of the trans community and passing down vital safety and transition knowledge
 13:21 — The current legislative landscape and the fight against anti-trans laws
 14:25 — A call to action for allies: support, platform, and advocate for trans communities

Resources & Links:

• Transgender Zone
• Social Enterprise Greenhouse

Connect with Victoria St. Germain:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter

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GUESTS:

Secretary Deborah Goddard, Rhode Island Executive Office of Housing

Eva Erlich, Vice President of Development at Trinity Financial

This episode dives into a real-world case of rebuilding community and creating sustainable affordable housing—focusing on Newport Heights. With insights from housing experts, we explore how innovative financing, strategic preservation, and thoughtful design can transform public housing and inspire broader change.

Key Topics:

• The history and success of Newport Heights as a Hope Six redevelopment project
• How refinancing tools like RAD enable long-term sustainability
• The twin importance of preservation and new development in meeting housing needs
• Challenges and strategies for aging public housing infrastructure
• The role of partnerships among government, private sector, and community stakeholders
• The broader housing supply problem and solutions through production and preservation

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and overview of the conversation
00:35 - Background on Newport Heights’ transformation from Tonomy Hill Public Housing
01:24 - The significance of Hope Six and RAD in housing redevelopment
02:13 - The impact of good design and refinancing on longevity
03:38 - Trinity’s role and financial approach in housing projects
04:36 - Resident involvement and community connection post-renovation
05:13 - Balancing reinvestment in existing infrastructure versus new projects
05:57 - The importance of preservation amidst funding challenges
07:09 - Addressing aging properties and renovation strategies
08:03 - Cost considerations and long-term affordability
09:24 - Early planning and proactive refinancing efforts
10:12 - The frequency of preservation discussions across Rhode Island
11:29 - Ongoing projects and Trinity’s portfolio strategies
12:30 - Broader outlook on Rhode Island’s housing market and supply issues
13:39 - The necessity of balancing preservation with new housing production
14:55 - Final thoughts on using successful projects as a blueprint for change

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This episode explores how financial penalties within the justice system disproportionately impact low-income communities, often leading to a cycle of debt and criminalization. University of Rhode Island's Dr. Brittany Martin shares insights from her research on monetary sanctions and discusses promising reforms at the state level, particularly Rhode Island's efforts to waive court fees for indigent defendants.

In this episode:

• The various forms of financial penalties beyond fines, including court fees, restitution, and probation costs
• How these sanctions are applied unevenly and tend to burden low-income individuals more heavily
• The impact of traffic violations becoming criminal offenses in certain states, contributing to ongoing financial stress
• Rhode Island's legislative reforms eliminating court costs for many defendants and the observed outcomes
• The role of assessment of ability to pay in improving collections while promoting fairness
• How research can inform legislative change and court practices around fines and fees
• The importance of justice that balances accountability with economic realities

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to the issue of fines and fees in criminal justice

00:28 - Background: Research origins and early interests in monetary sanctions

01:14 - Types of financial penalties: Fines, fees, restitution, and jail costs

02:13 - The scope of monetary sanctions and their enforcement across states

02:59 - Public defender fees and misconceptions about free legal aid

03:29 - Restitution and incarceration costs impacting low-income individuals

04:45 - The disproportionate burden on those with lower incomes

05:07 - How monetary sanctions erode perceived justice and legitimacy

06:23 - Statistically how most defendants are indigent, with significant consequences

06:57 - Traffic violations as criminal offenses and their financial implications

07:15 - The cycle created by criminal traffic offenses and probation fees

08:20 - Policy shifts: Rhode Island’s legislation to waive court fees for indigent defendants

09:20 - The recent reforms and their early impacts in Rhode Island

11:38 - The broader movement across states to reform or eliminate municipal and court fees

12:06 - Dr. Martin’s role at the Fines and Fees Justice Center and her focus on ability-to-pay assessments

13:21 - How research can inform policies that improve efficiency and fairness in courts

14:33 - Key questions for Rhode Island political candidates about criminal justice reform and financial burdens

15:37 - Closing thoughts on the importance of justice that respects economic diversity and fairness

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This episode dives into Rhode Island's latest child well-being report, revealing critical insights into the state's progress and ongoing challenges. Paige Parks discusses with Rhode Island Kids Count Executive Director, Paige Parks, about systemic issues affecting children—covering poverty, education gaps, healthcare access, and immigrant family experiences.

In this episode:

• The significance of data-driven advocacy for children's issues
• Over 15% of Rhode Island children live in poverty, amidst soaring housing costs
• Trends in education: declining absenteeism but persistent challenges in early childhood access
• Impact of federal policy changes on health insurance and social services
• The rising number of children in immigrant families—nearly 30%—and the importance of multilingual education programs
• How COVID-19 and inflation are magnifying disparities and stressors on families
• The need for more investments in childcare, social safety nets, and community-based support
• The threat and potential rollback of critical federal and state programs due to policy shifts
• Strategies for advocacy and coalition-building at the state level

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Rhode Island Kids Count and their mission

02:06 - The importance of putting children at the top of the policy agenda

03:43 - Key findings from the 2026 Rhode Island Kids Count Factbook

04:10 - Child poverty and housing affordability crisis in Rhode Island

05:13 - Ripple effects of unstable housing on children’s well-being

06:42 - The true cost of living in Rhode Island—almost 100k needed to stay afloat

07:33 - Education insights: progress vs. persistent gaps in early childhood and K-12

08:46 - Supporting the whole child: addressing food insecurity and school readiness

09:57 - Chronic absenteeism: causes, challenges, and the importance of data

11:20 - Health coverage: progress, disparities, and threats from federal policy changes

13:20 - Exposure to violence, domestic situations, and their impact on children

14:06 - The state of maternal and infant health care; disparities by race

15:31 - The vulnerability of immigrant children and families amid federal immigration policies

16:48 - The importance of local data amid federal funding cuts

18:41 - Strategies for advocacy and policy impact amidst political changes

20:15 - Federal data reductions: implications for statewide policy and program planning

22:54 - The rising needs of immigrant families for services like dual-language education and workforce support

24:11 - Addressing data gaps and community engagement for better child outcomes

25:37 - The recent legislative session and how coalitions influence policy for children

27:33 - Upcoming challenges: the impact of federal policies like HR 1 on families

29:16 - The importance of economic investments to sustain child benefit programs

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