The Providence Streets Coalition celebrated an overwhelmingly positive wave of election results following its first-ever major candidate endorsement campaign.
More Than 30 Mobility Champions Secure Victories Across Rhode Island
Across Rhode Island, the alliance backed over 30 advocates for public transit and safe streets, with a strong majority claiming decisive wins on election day. Nicole O’Loughlin, Political Director for the Providence Streets Coalition, pointed to the outcomes as proof that voters prioritize safer streets, fully funded public transit, and accessible communities.
Public transit funding and safe streets infrastructure emerged as pivotal topics during the 2026 race following recent political choices that impacted both sectors. Governor-elect Helena Buonanno Foulkes addressed the funding needs for the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority following the campaign.
I believe very firmly that if you imagine our state in the next 20 to 30 years, public transportation will be a more important part of how people get around, and I am grateful to have earned the endorsement of the Providence Streets Coalition, which has been a leading advocate for investing in public transit in recent years. I’m quite certain that we can find the $15 million that RIPTA was looking for to restore what they need.
The coalition’s strategic endorsement process supported candidates dedicated to reducing traffic violence, improving walking and biking infrastructure, and securing sustainable funding for RIPTA, including undoing the 2025 bus cuts enacted under Governor Daniel McKee.
Endorsed Candidates Across State and Municipal Offices
The successful candidates span multiple levels of state and local government, establishing a directive for the upcoming legislative session.
- Helena Buonanno Foulkes, Governor
- Sabina Matos, Lieutenant Governor
- Gregg Amore, Secretary of State
- James Diossa, Treasurer
- Kim Ahern, Attorney General
- David Morales, Mayor
- Bob DaSilva, Mayor
Additional endorsed candidates winning election include Yulyana Torres in Ward 3, Jackie Goldman in Ward 5, and Annajane Yolken in Ward 13. Legislative seats went to Edith Ajello in District 1, Rebecca Kislak in District 4, and Amy Santiago in District 7 in Providence, alongside Art Handy in District 18, Teresa Tanzi in District 34, Kathleen Fogarty in District 35, Jennifer Stewart in District 59, Leonela Felix in District 61, Jenni Furtado in District 64, Jennifer Boylan in District 66, Nicole Jellinek in District 67, June Speakman in District 68, Meghan Kallman in District 15, Jonathon Acosta in District 16, Lammis Vargas in District 28, and Alana DiMario in District 36.
