Canario Will Seek Third House District 71 Term

PORTSMOUTH, RI—Rep. Dennis Canario (D-Dist. 71, Portsmouth, Tiverton, Little Compton), announced his intention to seek a third term on Friday, saying "I will be proud to put my record before the voters this fall.”

Canario, a retired Portsmouth police officer and father of three, said he has worked hard to raise the quality of life across the state "to ensure every Rhode Islander has the opportunity to start a family, earn a living and retire comfortably."

Canario was named a Deputy Majority Leader by Speaker of the House Nicholas Mattiello in 2014, a powerful role that has him plugged in to both the inner leadership circle as well as the rank and file members of the House.

In a news release announcing his candidacy, Canario said “I have enjoyed the opportunity to speak on behalf of rank and file members and raise concerns to House leadership. Together, we have moved our state forward by increasing the minimum wage, expanding the earned income tax credit, and reducing taxes on retirees.”

As a representative of the East Bay, Canario said he's been the region's outspoken advocate. He opposed tolls on the Sakonnet River Bridge in 2014 and he opposed a plan to toll trucks earlier this year, he said.

“I heard loud and clear from my constituents that they were opposed to the plan that fixes our roads and bridges by placing a toll on large commercial trucks,” Canario said. “Although we know there is a need to repair our bridges, there is a better way to do it than eventually placing more than a dozen toll gantries on highways throughout the state.

Canario also noted his work supporting the developmentally disabled, his backing of ethics reform and background in law enforcement.

Before his election to the House District 71 seat, Canario was a Portsmouth Town Councilman, serving from 2004 to 2010.

Photo: State House Photo