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Woonsocket Today
By the People, for the People
North Smithfield Lawmaker Shapes CD2 Race
Local senator backs Republican dentist's congressional campaign, setting up primary battle
Mar. 28, 2026 at 9:25am
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A fractured, avant-garde painting captures the shifting political landscape as a North Smithfield lawmaker backs an underdog congressional challenger, setting up a primary battle in Rhode Island's 2nd District.Woonsocket TodayA North Smithfield state senator is backing a Republican dentist's bid for Congress in Rhode Island's 2nd District, shaking up the race and setting up a potential primary battle with another GOP candidate. The article outlines the background and conservative platform of the dentist, Stephen Skoly, and how he contrasts with the Democratic incumbent and another Republican challenger.
Why it matters
This race in Rhode Island's 2nd Congressional District is drawing attention as a potential battleground, with a North Smithfield lawmaker throwing her support behind a Republican challenger to the Democratic incumbent. The primary could test the strength of the GOP's conservative wing against the party's establishment.
The details
North Smithfield state Sen. Jessica de la Cruz is backing Republican dentist Stephen Skoly's campaign for Congress in Rhode Island's 2nd District. Skoly, who has a conservative platform on issues like immigration and energy policy, is seeking to challenge Democratic incumbent Seth Magaziner and fellow Republican Vic Mellor in the primary. The article highlights Skoly's background and how he differs from the other candidates.
- The 2nd Congressional District race in Rhode Island is taking place in 2026.
The players
Jessica de la Cruz
A state senator from North Smithfield who is backing Republican congressional candidate Stephen Skoly.
Stephen Skoly
A Republican dentist from Rhode Island who is running for Congress in the state's 2nd District, with the backing of state Sen. Jessica de la Cruz.
Seth Magaziner
The Democratic incumbent in Rhode Island's 2nd Congressional District, who is being challenged by Skoly and another Republican.
Vic Mellor
A Republican candidate also running in the primary for Rhode Island's 2nd Congressional District, in addition to Skoly.
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
