Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee on Wednesday nominated a longtime former state official, Stefan Pryor, to return to his former role as Commerce secretary.
Pryor signed on to lead the state’s economic development efforts before Gov-elect Gina Raimondo took office in 2015.
Over time, he touted a series of high-profile job announcements, some of which yielded far fewer jobs than originally expected; Rhode Island still faced familiar economic development challenges when Raimondo left in 2021 for a job with the Biden administration.
In 2022, Pryor lost a Democratic primary run for state general treasurer.
By 2023, he switched to a role as state Housing secretary after a previous nominee, Josh Saul, didn’t work out. Pryor’s tenure was controversial and included internal struggles, incomplete projects and scrutiny over contracts, the Boston Globe has reported.
In a statement, McKee said Pryor has the experience and skills to lead Rhode Island’s economic development efforts.
“He has forged strong relationships with business(es) over the years, knows Rhode Island’s strengths and potential, and is skilled at liaising between the public and private sectors,” the governor said.
In a statement, House Speaker Joe Shekarchi said, “Stefan was a very effective and talented public servant when he previously led Rhode Island Commerce, and I look forward to working closely with him once again. He brings continuity and commitment to this important position.”
Pryor’s nomination faces Senate confirmation. It’s not clear when that will happen since the General Assembly has recessed for the summer.
