Lynch Bows Out of Race for Governor
Friday, July 16, 2010
It’s official: Patrick Lynch is dropping out of the race for governor.
Yesterday the Attorney General announced he was stepping aside to avoid what almost certainly would have been a bruising primary battle with Democratic contender Frank Caprio. “Often in our elections, the people of Rhode Island have gotten the wrong leadership because of divisive costly primaries, especially in the Democratic Gubernatorial Primary,” Lynch said. “This election cycle had the makings of the same result.” (Watch the video HERE.)
Lynch said there was a path to victory for both himself and Caprio. But, with the Sept. 14 primary coming so close to the November election, he warned that a tough primary battle could cost Democrats the election.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST“I did not enter public service to become a footnote in history by injuring my party, resulting in the election of a governor who is not equipped to guide our wonderful State into the future it deserves,” Lynch said. “Therefore, today I am announcing that I am withdrawing my name from consideration to become the next Governor of Rhode Island.”
Endorses Caprio
Lynch also extended his unqualified support for Caprio, a primary opponent whom his campaign has tried to paint as part of the entrenched political establishment.
“I wholeheartedly offer my enthusiastic endorsement of my friend and fellow General Officer, Frank Caprio. In addition to this announcement and my endorsement of his candidacy, I am ready to assist Frank however I can to ensure that he becomes the next Governor of our great State,” Lynch said. “The push for unity begins today and I ask all Rhode Islanders to seize this moment and join me in supporting Frank Caprio.”
Caprio, Chafee Respond
Caprio’s campaign has released the following statement in response to the announcement:
“I want to thank Patrick Lynch for his endorsement and I look forward to campaigning with him to change our State,” Caprio said. ‘I’ve been friends with Patrick for 30 years, and I know how much he cares about Rhode Island and his family. He will have a bright future in whatever path he chooses. Now, it is time to bring this state back.”
J.R. Pagliarini, the campaign manager for independent candidate Lincoln Chafee downplayed the impact the announcement would have on the race. "I don't think things have really changed," Pagliarini said. He said there were still about 100 days left until the November election and that Chafee's campaign has to be prepared for any kind of scenario.
He said the news simply clarified for his staff and for voters that Frank Caprio would be the likely Democratic nominee for governor.
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