PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - A Providence city official has launched a primary challenge to incumbent Democratic U.S. Rep. Jim Langevin.
Dylan Conley, 33, an attorney and the chairman of the Providence Board of Licenses, said he had thought about running for Congress before, but recent events including the coronavirus pandemic and protests sparked by the death of George Floyd spurred him to jump into the race. He said he has great respect for Langevin, who was first elected to Congress in 2000.
“We’re at a critical turning point in American history, and I cannot be on the sidelines while this happens,” Conley said.
He plans to use the power of social media to campaign.
Langevin’s campaign in a statement touted the incumbent’s record.
“Congressman Langevin is laser-focused on unifying Rhode Islanders, keeping communities safe and healthy, and boosting our state’s recovery efforts as we get through these trying times together. He has always fought for the people of Rhode Island and will continue to do so,” the statement said.
Former state Rep. Bob Lancia is running for the seat as a Republican. The primary is Sept. 8.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.