NEWPORT, R.I. — Newport Mayor Charlie Holder on Friday endorsed former Newport mayor Xay Khamsyvoravong for lieutenant governor, praising his record of working with local leaders and delivering results for residents.
Holder’s endorsement comes just days after Johnston Mayor Joseph Polisena Jr. announced his support for Khamsyvoravong and on the eve of Newport’s 70th St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
“I’ve served alongside Xay for years and seen him lead,” Holder said in a statement. “He understands how to bring people together, solve problems and deliver results. He leads with integrity and purpose, and I’m confident he will serve Rhode Islanders well as lieutenant governor.”
Holder noted that after Khamsyvoravong completed his term as mayor, the Newport City Council appointed him as the city’s representative to the Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns. Leaders from municipalities across the state later selected him as a vice president of the organization.
During his time in Newport government, Khamsyvoravong worked on initiatives aimed at lowering taxes for working families, expanding workforce and middle-class housing and investing in education through programs such as Learn 365 and the Community Learning Center.
Holder also highlighted the pair’s collaboration on creating Newport’s first resiliency department, which coordinates efforts among public works, utilities, planning and zoning to address climate change and infrastructure challenges.
“Mayor Holder understands the importance of taking common-sense actions to help working families, and I’m honored to have his endorsement,” Khamsyvoravong said. “We’ve worked side by side to make real progress for Newport families, and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together.”
Khamsyvoravong is campaigning for lieutenant governor with a focus on economic growth, housing and support for local communities. Holder’s endorsement adds to a growing list of local officials backing the campaign as it continues to build support across Rhode Island.
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