Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos jumps into congressional race
CRANSTON, R.I. (WJAR) — Sabina Matos announces a run for Congress.
Rhode Island’s Democratic lieutenant governor jumped into the race with a statement and a video on social media Monday afternoon.
Matos will hold a formal campaign kickoff in April, according to the statement.
She is seeking to replace Rep. David Cicilline in Rhode Island’s 1st Congressional District.
Cicilline announced last month that he is leaving Congress at the end of May to lead the Rhode Island Foundation.
"I’m running for Congress because Rhode Islanders deserve a champion who has a deep connection and commitment to the vibrant communities that make up our state. We’re facing an important moment in Washington. I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and continue fighting for the things that matter to Rhode Islanders: addressing affordable housing, protecting reproductive freedom, working to solve our climate crisis, and standing up to threats to our democracy," Matos said in the statement.
Matos began serving a first full term as lieutenant governor in January after an election victory in November.
She became lieutenant governor in 2021, chosen by Gov. Dan McKee to fill the position he vacated to become governor.
Matos previously served 10 years on the Providence City Council, the last two years as its president.
Matos emigrated from the Dominican Republic when she was 20 years old and learned to speak English while working in a jewelry factory in Providence, according to her campaign statement.
She lives in Providence, though just outside the 1st District.
Her campaign says Matos is “committed to moving her family to the 1st District.”
Residency is not a requirement to hold the office.
Allen Waters, who ran for the same seat in November as a Republican, has announced his plans to run again as a Democrat this time.
Rhode Island House Speaker Joseph Shekarchi and Helena Buonanno Foulkes, who ran for governor in 2022, are among other Democrats who have expressed interest in running.