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

The last convention in the state was held in 1986

Early voting for the Rhode Island state primary begins on Aug. 21.
rawpixel.com / Felix
Share
Early voting for the Rhode Island state primary begins on Aug. 21.
rawpixel.com / Felix
Breaking Down the Ballot: Should Rhode Island Hold a Constitutional Convention?
Copy

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.

Citing patient care concerns, Butler plans permanent replacements as strike enters third week
Thousands of Rhode Island children could lose access to things like meal programs, health insurance, and early childhood education if the Trump administration follows through on its promise to make major cuts to federally funded programs
The outlook remains uncertain in the Senate Judiciary Committee
McKee staffs up while preparing to seek re-election
The President’s rescission request targets all federal funding for public media through 2027, drawing fierce pushback from Democrats, rural lawmakers, and local stations — and prompting legal and political battles over press freedom and cultural influence
Whether it’s national, local, new or an encore, here’s what to watch this June on Rhode Island PBS