Justice Department Monitoring Special Congressional Election In RI

RHODE ISLAND — The Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Justice Department said it will monitor Rhode Island' congressional special election to ensure the state is following all federal voting rights laws.

During Tuesday's election to fill former U.S. Rep. David Cicilline's (D-Providence), district one seat, polls in Central Falls, Pawtucket, Providence, and Woonsocket will be monitored by Justice Department officials. Justice Department officials from the civil rights division will be available to hear complaints from the public.

"Since the passage of the Voting Rights Act in 1965, the Civil Rights Division has regularly monitored elections in the field in jurisdictions around the country to protect the rights of voters," a Justice Department spokesperson said.

Complaints can also be made by calling 1-800-253-3931 or by filling out a form on the Justice Department's website.

Fifteen candidates qualified for the ballot in Tuesday's primary — including 13 Democrats and two Republicans. The candidates on the 2023 primary ballot are:

Democrats

• Gabe Amo
• Nicholas Autiello
• Stephanie Beauté
• Walter Berbrick
• Sandra Cano
• Don Carlson
• Steve Casey
• Spencer Dickinson
• John Goncalves
• Sabina Mato
• Ana Quezada
• Aaron Regunberg
• Allen Waters.

Republicans

• Terri Flynn
• Gerry Leonard

But just after making the ballot, Autiello dropped out of the race, bringing the options down to 12 for Democrats.

Polls are open until 8 p.m. in Rhode Island's congressional primary election.

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