Cranston Election Profile: Paul Bucci

CRANSTON, RI — Paul Bucci is running for the Ward 6 seat of the Cranston City Council. The 51-year-old Democrat previously served on the city's School Committee in the mid-to-late 1990s.

Bucci, who holds a political science degree from the University of Rhode Island, is an 18-year veteran of Cranston High School East, teaching Social Studies.

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Why are you seeking elective office?

I am seeking the Ward 6 City Council seat because I want to make sure Cranston has strong public schools, strong public safety, and responsible economic growth. I also want to make sure Ward 6 has a councilperson who is accessible and accountable.

What do you believe should be done to contain the coronavirus pandemic, and what would you do to lessen its economic impacts?

I support the Governor and all her efforts. She has been a very strong leader during these challenging times. We need to remember that how we deal with this individually can affect the people around house. We must continue to socially distance, wear our masks when we can't socially distance, wash our hands, and be aware of our surroundings and of others. All elected officials and government leaders must work together to make sure our citizens receive the financial help needed during these difficult times.

Do you believe systemic racism is a problem in America generally and Rhode Island specifically, and if so, what would you do to combat it?

I do not believe there is systemic racism in the City of Cranston. I do believe there are areas in Rhode Island and the United States where there is systemic racism.

Should the words "Providence Plantations" be removed from the state's name?

Yes

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I do not know my opponent and have never met him.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

I am for strong public schools, strong public safety, responsible economic growth, accessibility, and accountability. We need to take a neighborhoods first approach in dealing with economic growth. Business should enhance neighborhoods, not hurt them. We need strong public safety to protect the children in our schools, and our residents in our neighborhoods.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I am a lifelong resident of the City of Cranston. My wife and I have raised two sons who are the products of Cranston Public Schools. I have coached their youth sports teams and I currently coach cross-country at Cranston West and track at Cranston East. As a homeowner for over 22 years in our city, I have the life and professional experience needed to serve on the City Council.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

From my Dad, "There are no shortcuts."

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I always promise to be accessible and accountable to the residents of Ward 6. If I am elected, they will have a voice in our city government. We are dropping flyers every morning and knocking on doors every night trying to meet as many people as possible in the ward. This is an old school campaign that will be won on the streets and in the neighborhoods of Ward 6.