Narragansett Election Profile: Michael Millen, Jr.

NARRAGANSETT, RI — Michael Millen Jr. is running for a seat on the Narragansett Town Council. The 29-year-old is a Narragansett native and a newcomer to elected office.

Millen holds a bachelor's degree in Chemistry from Salve Regina University. He works as a brewer at the Isle Brewers Guild in Pawtucket, saying he has loved doing so for the past five years because "it allows me to express my passion for food sciences and knowledge of chemistry in a creative fashion." His father, Michael Millen Sr., is Narragansett Pier School's athletic director and coaches wrestling at the Pier and high schools.

Campaign website: MillenRI.com

Why are you seeking elective office?

Narragansett is my home. Even when I have been away, I was always connected and informed on the issues. As part of the younger generation of residents it was convenient for me to believe it was not yet my responsibility to make a difference. However, I can no longer sit on the sidelines and wait for those older or more politically experienced than me to facilitate change. Elected Officials are supposed to act as representatives of their community and too often I have seen them ignore their constituents in recent years. This is inexcusable and I want to bring back honesty, integrity, and trust to our local offices.

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

COVID-19 is a real threat that should be taken seriously. I am not a doctor, which is why I refer to the guidelines set by the CDC. This is not a political matter. We should continue to follow the guidelines as they are updated by the CDC and our state officials. As we continue to reopen the state, we should continue to assess what regulations and restrictions can be lifted to help our small businesses succeed in such a difficult time.

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?

Systemic racism is a problem in society that requires attention, education, and change.

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?

As I stated earlier, I am part of the next generation. We feel it is our time to take the torch and carry our town into its next era. Our voice’s might be new ones, but it doesn’t mean we aren’t willing, able, and hungry to make a difference if given the chance.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

I am in support of the Library’s move to the Belmont building. Creating and implementing effective and enforceable policies that meet the needs of the property owners, renters, and residents. A complete assessment and review of all current Zoning definitions and procedures in town. A full assessment of the established coastal access points throughout Narragansett for their effectiveness and reliability to the public. Narragansett has one of the best school systems in the state because we have some of the best teachers in the state. We cannot be content with our success, and should always strive to continue improving. This is why I want to make a commitment to support our teachers and staff in any way that I can. Many more of my views and visions for Narragansett can be found on my website.

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

To achieve the rank of Eagle Scout I had to complete over 325 different requirements, including at least 21 merit badges, a community service project, and pass a board of review. It was a marathon, not a sprint. It taught me patience and commitment. I know that I do not have any prior political experience, but I am excited and prepared for the challenge of serving my home with intelligence and humility.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Listen. When I was first training to be a brewer, my mentor Kolby told me the most important thing I can do is listen whenever I approach a situation. If you are too busy planning what you are going to say next then you miss out on the opportunity to listen and actually address the conversation at hand. I will always listen to anyone who wants to talk to me.

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

I have provided a lot of information about myself and my stances on my website, MillenRI.com. I implore everyone to go there and if they have any further questions or just would like to talk to me I can easily be reached by email at ElectMillen@Gmail.com. People can also follow me on Instagram and Twitter under the username @MillenRI