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Breaking Down the Ballot: Should Rhode Island Hold a Constitutional Convention?

Early voting for the Rhode Island state primary begins on Aug. 21.
Early voting for the Rhode Island state primary begins on Aug. 21.

The last convention in the state was held in 1986

On Nov. 5, Rhode Island voters will have the opportunity to weigh in on five statewide ballot questions. In the weeks leading up to Election Day, The Public's Radio will cover each question in depth.

This time, the focus is on Question One: “Shall there be a convention to amend or revise the Rhode Island Constitution?”

The last convention to amend the state constitution occurred in 1986. Proponents from different ends of the political spectrum say voters should be given the opportunity to amend the constitution — but a coalition led by ACLU Rhode Island, unions and women’s advocacy groups fears a convention could threaten civil rights protections.

Giving their perspective on the issue are John Marion, executive director of the nonprofit government watchdog organization Common Cause Rhode Island; and Patrick Anderson, a reporter for The Providence Journal.

This interview was conducted by The Public's Radio. You can read the story here.

A thirty-year radio veteran. Experience working as a reporter, producer, anchor, and host. A playful soul who has lived and worked in places like Denver, Colorado, Las Vegas, Nevada, and Miami, Florida. Now, just trying to become a Rhode Islander through and through.
The local voice on Weekend Edition for several years, Joe stepped into the role of morning producer in October 2023. Joe is also a reporter, covering stories in the field and conducting interviews with newsmakers.
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