From podcasting to politics: Bill Bartholomew mulls a run for R.I. lieutenant governor
A weekday briefing from veteran Rhode Island reporters, focused on the things that matter most in the Ocean State.
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The bigger picture:
Bartholomew would need to prove he has the ability to raise enough money to be competitive – Matos spent more than $500,000 during her first campaign for lieutenant governor in 2022 – but he believes there could be an opening for a center-left candidate in the race.
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He is well-liked by progressives who could help him in a Democratic primary, but he has also gained the respect of more-conservative listeners at WPRO. He tends to offer a more-optimistic, upbeat view of Rhode Island than some of his colleagues, but he has been highly critical of Department of Transportation Director Peter Alviti's handling of the
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While nothing would stop him from keeping his podcast, Bartholomew could face pressure to leave the radio gig if he officially enters the race (in 2014, Buddy Cianci kept his job as a radio host after entering the race for mayor, but took a leave of absence after the Democratic primary).
Matos has already said she is running for reelection next year, and plenty of currently elected officials have also been mentioned as potential candidates, including term-limited Attorney General Peter Neronha, state Senator Lou DiPalma, and Central Falls Mayor Maria Rivera.
This story first appeared in Rhode Map, our free newsletter about Rhode Island that also contains information about local events, links to interesting stories, and more. If you'd like to receive it via email Monday through Friday,
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