Jump to State of the State video archive

Operation Clean Government's highly regarded television program, "State of the State,” is broadcast 4 times a week on public access channels.

Saturday at 11:00 PM on Cox 13 and Verizon 32 and Full Channel 9
Sunday at 8:00 AM on Cox 13 and Verizon 32 and Full Channel 9
Monday at 9:00 PM on Cox 18* and Verizon 31 and Full Channel 9
Thursday at 9:00 PM on Cox 18* and Verizon 31and Full Channel 9

*Cox channel 18 - local Public Access in Kent County which includes Coventry, East Greenwich, Exeter, North Kingstown, Warwick, West Greenwich, and West Warwick.

Focusing on matters of public interest to Rhode Island, State of the State features political figures and recognized experts – hosted by Robert Arruda, John Carlevale or guest hosts with special topic knowledge.

The purpose is a search for truth, with non-partisan programs presenting a diversity of views and openness. The mission is to educate the public about local and state issues and personalities, and to encourage people to become more involved with the political process. Key elements include a commitment to presenting both sides of controversial issues, and editorial independence from OCG itself.

During election years, candidate interviews and debates involving candidates for public office are presented, as well as discussion of election issues and concerns by candidates and non-candidates.

State of the State’s production crew and committee members are volunteers who devote time and effort because they believe in these goals. We always need additional volunteer labor and talent.

State of the State Video Archive  

Victor Moffitt vs. John Robitaille for Governor

Guests: Victor Moffitt (R) and John Robitaille (R)
Host: Bruce Lang
Produced: July 22, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

Victor Moffitt and John Robitaille face off in the Republican Party primary election on Tuesday, September 14, 2010. Both are good men with interesting professional backgrounds and compelling personal histories. One of these candidates will emerge as the stand bearer for the R.I. Republican Party in the general election on November 2, 2010. No doubt the general election will offer a candidate rich tapestry of choices for governor; but the more immediate choice is with these two men. If you are planning to vote in the Republican Party primary, this is a must see debate. May the best man for Rhode Island win. For more information on these candidates please visit their websites: www.MoffittforGovernor.com and www.johnforgovernor.com

Program Note: This is first in the Donald Gill Memorial Candidate Debate Series of interviews with candidates for general offices and the general assembly. The selection and scheduling of candidates was done by random selection.


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A. Ralph Mollis vs. Lou Raptakis for Secretary of State

Guests: A. Ralph Mollis (D) and Lou Raptakis (D)
Host: John Carlevale
Produced: July 22, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

A. Ralph Mollis and Lou Raptakis face off in the Democratic Party primary election on Tuesday, September 14, 2010. Mr. Mollis is the incumbent Secretary of State seeking reelection. Lou Raptakis is a member of the R.I. Senate. Each candidate brings a rich background of political experience and public service to this debate. One candidate says change is what we need in the Office of the Secretary of State. The other says change is what I have brought to the Office. One of these candidates will emerge as the stand bearer for the R.I. Democratic Party in the general election on November 2, 2010. If you are planning to vote in the Democratic Party primary, this is a must see debate. May the best man for Rhode Island win. For more information on these candidates please visit their websites: www.mollis2010.com and www.raptakis2010.com

Program Note: This is second in the Donald Gill Memorial Candidate Debate Series of interviews with candidates for general offices and the general assembly. The selection and scheduling of candidates was done by random selection.


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What Do We Need To Do To Fix Rhode Island Now?

Part 1: Arlene Violet and Harry Staley Interview

Guests: Harry Staley of the Rhode Island Statewide Coalition (RISC) and RISC Business Network & Arlene Violet, spokesperson for the RISC Business Network
Host: John Carlevale
Produced: July 8, 2010 /Run time: 30 minutes
For more information visit www.RBN2010.com and www.statewidecoalition.com

Part 2: Colleen Conley and Anastasia Eurton Interview

Guests: Colleen Conley of RI Tea Party & Anastasia Eurton of Minority Advancement Research Council
Host: John Carlevale
Produced: July 8, 2010 /Run time: 30 minutes
For more information visit www.riteaparty.com and www.RIMARC.org

This question lies at the core of this two part program. The guests share their insight about what is wrong with Rhode Island and what we need to do to fix it now. Host John Carlevale asserts that Rhode Island is at "critical mass" and that if we do not correct the structural and political problems plaguing Rhode Island very soon, we may not be able to fix matters at all. The guests agree and cite as examples: the State's huge budget deficits; unfunded pensions, which are not sustainable in the form they exist; too much government doing too little well; and special interests superceding the interests of the general population and taxpayers; and more. How do we fix these problems? The solution resides in changing the composition of the general assembly, because that is where the power resides but the will to do what is necessary is lacking. The key is to elect to the general assembly people who have the best interest of the State and its People in mind and the will to make the necessary changes. All agree that this process begins with voters electing the right people with the right intent to the general assembly. Arlene Violet and Harry Staley plan to give voters a little guidance through the RISC Business Network, which will ask candidates to pledge to certain practices and principles, which are supportive to business to enable job creation and economic growth. Colleen Conley of the RI Tea Party has a similar strategy with somewhat different criteria. Anastasia Eurton of the Minority Advancement Research Council is working to educate members of the minority community to vote more wisely by learning what the issues are and doing a critical analysis of candidates and then voting for the person who best represents their individual values. The goal of all is to change the composition of the general assembly.

Program Note: This is the sixth and seventh in a series of interviews with good government group leaders intended to learn how each group individually and collectively will use its influence to shape the political discussion; to promote its issues and concerns and to address and to solve the very significant structural and political problems facing the State of Rhode Island and its citizens.


Watch Part I


Watch Part II

 

 

 

Todd Giroux Interviewed for Governor

Guest: Todd Giroux (I) Candidate for Governor
Host: Spencer Dickinson
Produced: June 24, 2010 /Run time: 30 minutes

Todd Giroux is an unaffiliated candidate for Governor. A restoration and preservation contractor by trade, Giroux believes that the knowledge and skills he has acquired in his chosen work can be used to rebuild, restore and preserve the State of Rhode Island. He felt compelled to enter the race for Governor to discuss some of his passions and ideas for addressing some of the problems Rhode Islanders face. Among his passions are the environment in general and Narragansett Bay in particular. Having experienced both pristine and polluted waterways as a boatman, Giroux urges that we must not sacrifice the progress we have made in restoring and preserving the environment. Being in the home construction business, Giroux also has a great concern for people facing mortgage foreclosures and he offers a most interesting and novel approach to prevent foreclosures by using the bonding power of the State. Unemployment is another great concern of Giroux and here too he offers a unique solution, which resides within the pool of the unemployed, who are collecting unemployment checks. His solution harkens back to the Federal construction, reconstruction and re-employment era. For more information visit www.RIGovernor2010.com

Program Note: This is another in a series of interviews with candidates for general offices and the general assembly. The selection and scheduling of candidates was done by random selection.


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Robert Healey, Jr. Interviewed for Lt. Governor

Guest: Robert J. Healey, Jr. (CM-Cool Moose) Candidate for Lt. Governor
Host: Ian Lonngren
Produced: June 24, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

Robert Healey is a candidate for Lt. Governor, a job he does not want, a general office which he believes the State of RI does not need nor its citizens should be paying for. However, if Healey is elected, he pledges to function in that role and perform the limited duties and collect no salary. Furthermore, he shall hire no staff. The net result: taxpayers shall save one million dollars each year of his term for a total savings of four million dollars over the four-year term. So how will the four million dollars be used? Healey suggests that we should use the money on things that really matter and where it can make a difference in the lives of Rhode Islanders. Healey believes we should not be paying for a general officer/office which has no real power to change or do anything. In this interview, Healey offers a history lesson in the evolution, or perhaps more precisely, the devolution of the Lt. Governor position which, in addition to a few statutory roles, has only one constitutional role, which is to wait around for the Governor to die or become incapacitated. Wait a minute. What about separation of powers? What business does the general assembly have assigning duties to a general officer, asks Healey. Healey's facts are correct; his logic is impeccable; his offer is one Rhode Islanders can not refuse. But.... they have refused his offer in the past. Will they accept his offer this election year? For more information visit www.votehealey.com

Program Note: This is another in a series of interviews with candidates for general offices and the general assembly. The selection and scheduling of candidates was done by random selection.


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How Will Common Cause R.I. Influence 2010 Election Outcomes

Guest: John Marion, Executive Director, Common Cause-R.I.
Host: Larry Valencia
Produced: June 24, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

John Marion, Executive Director of Common Cause Rhode Island, can usually be found at the State House when the general assembly is in session talking to legislators in an effort to educate and persuade them to consider and adopt positions his organization believes will benefit good government and good legislative processes. How successful has Marion been during this legislative session to get the legislature to do the kind of things he believes need to be done? Well he is candid and straightforward about this question, as he is about every question posed in this interview. What grade might he give the legislature for it's performance this term? Certainly not an "A" grade. Although he willing talks about evaluating legislature performance in this interview, a more detailed analysis will come this July in the Common Cause RI newsletter. This written analysis will grade each legislator along a number of issues Common Cause deems important to good government in Rhode Island. Marion advises that Common Cause does not grade on a curve. Will there be failing grades for some? For more information visit www.commoncauseri.org

Program Note: This is the fifth in a series of interviews with good government group leaders intended to learn how each group individually and collectively will use its influence to shape the political discussion; to promote its issues and concerns and to address and to solve the very significant structural and political problems facing the State of Rhode Island and its citizens.


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How Will Young Political Activists Influence 2010 Election Outcomes?

Guests: Travis Rowley of RI Young Republicans; Julie Martin and Evan Gillissie of Teenage Republicans; Meghan Grady of RI Young Democrats
Host: Larry Valencia
Produced: June 10, 2010 / Run time: 60 minutes

How will young Rhode Island political activists influence 2010 election outcomes? That is the question and focus of this special series of interviews with political activists group leaders intended to learn how each group individually and collectively will use its influence to shape the political discussion; to promote its issues and concerns and to address and to solve the very significant structural and political problems facing the State of Rhode Island and its citizens. In this case, Travis Rowley of Rhode Island Young Republicans; Julie Martin and Evan Gillissie of Teenage Republicans; and Meghan Grady of Rhode Island Young Democrats tell us how they have become involved at such young ages and what they hope to accomplish with their political activism. They are impressive in their understanding of the Rhode Island political process and the problems facing us as citizens. Their youthful optimism is contagious and they are working to restore hope in the Rhode Island State motto as well as to make changes in the Rhode Island political landscape. Although their views are often different from fellow guests, they are the same with respect to their enthusiasm and optimism and belief that they can make a difference. View this show for a sixty-minute dose of rejuvenation.

For more information visit www.rhodeislandyr.com (Young Republicans); www.riyd.org (Young Democrats) or email chsetars@yahoo.com (Teenage Republicans)

Program Note: This is the fourth in a series of interviews with good government group leaders intended to learn how each group individually and collectively will use its influence to shape the political discussion; to promote its issues and concerns and to address and to solve the very significant structural and political problems facing the State of Rhode Island and its citizens.



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Frank Caprio Interview

Guest: Lincoln Chafee (I) Candidate for Governor
Host: Bruce Lang
Produced: May 13, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

Candidate for governor Frank Caprio will be in a Democratic Party primary election with Patrick Lynch for their political party's nomination in September. Caprio and host Bruce Lang discuss a wide range of issues and concerns. Caprio acknowledges the dire condition the State is in and asserts that big changes are needed to address the many problems. After meeting with over one thousand small businesses in the past six months, Caprio concludes that government has become an adversary of small business. That has to change, he asserts. And so, changing the business climate is paramount to improving economic conditions in Rhode Island. This will require a multitude of initiatives to make it easier to do business in RI, including tax changes; permitting and licensing procedure changes; access to capital; etc. Another big change needed is to make government more user friendly by mirroring what Caprio has done in the Office of the Treasurer: run government like a small business; develop strategic plans for reducing spending and improving services. Can it be done? Caprio points out that he saved/turned back one million dollars each year as RI Treasurer by cutting spending and finding ways to save, while at the same time improving services. As governor, Caprio will freeze spending; implement accountability procedures; develop plans for reducing spending; mirror the federal government's approach to pensions. Caprio intends to continue the existing executive order on immigration; is in favor of e-verify; and supports efforts to regionalize school districts along commonality of community characteristics and needs. For more information visit www.frankcaprio.com.

Program Note: This is another in a series of interviews with candidates for general offices and the general assembly. The selection and scheduling of candidates was done by random selection.


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Elizabeth Roberts Interview

Guest: Elizabeth Roberts (D) Candidate for Lt. Governor
Host: Ian Lonngren
Produced: May 27, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

Incumbent candidate for Lt. Governor Elizabeth Roberts begins this series of interviews with candidates for Rhode Island Lt. Governor. Early in the interview, host Ian Lonngren reminds Roberts that one other candidate is calling for the elimination of this general office. In response, Roberts talks at length about the value of the office to Rhode Island citizens and makes clear the distinction between the roles defined by the RI Constitution and by statute. The flexibility this office provides to the office holder suits Roberts well as she has been able to use her training in biology and health care administration to work on health care initiatives for Rhode Islanders. She proudly offers examples of her effectiveness. Roberts perceives herself to be a small business advocate as well and she makes a strong connection of concern between her work on behalf of small businesses and the rapidly rising health care insurance costs for small business. This is a major concern of small businesses, along with increasing governmental red tape and taxes. Roberts asserts that her office and staff members have been effective advocates for citizens who have found difficulty navigating various government services. She cites examples of how her office has helped constituents navigate more effectively; get needed information; or solve problems. Roberts makes an effort to maintain a presence in the community in order to pass on constituent needs and concerns to other branches of government and to advocate for change where change is needed. For more information visit www.elizabethroberts.org.

Program Note: This is another in a series of interviews with candidates for general offices and the general assembly. The selection and scheduling of candidates was done by random selection.


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Lincoln Chafee Interview

Guest: Lincoln Chafee (I) Candidate for Governor
Host: Bruce Lang
Produced: May 13, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

Former US Senator and former Warwick Mayor Lincoln Chafee, often a maverick and often bravely willing to say what is not necessarily mainstream or popular, makes no exception in showing these qualities in his bid to become the next governor of Rhode Island. Yes, he speaks of increasing taxes and explains that expanding the sales tax to include currently exempted items will be necessary to meet the recurring state budget deficit. Chafee passionately asserts that the State should no longer pass this budget deficit problem to cities and towns by reducing aid to cities and towns and thus creating a ripple effect of creating local deficits, reduction in local services and increases in local property tax. The unfunded state pension liability is another problem which must be addressed sooner rather than later. Chafee asserts that it is wrong to pass this problem along to our children and grandchildren and offers a solution similar to the federal pension model for new employees. Notwithstanding these and other huge problems, Chafee remains optimistic about Rhode Island's future as he cites the state's resources and new initiatives, which hold much promise for economic growth and recovery. Visit www.chafeeforgovernor.com for more information.

Program Note: This is another in a series of interviews with candidates for general offices and the general assembly. The selection and scheduling of candidates was done by random selection.


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How Will the RI Tea Party Influence the 2010 Elections?

Guest: Colleen Conley, RI Tea Party
Host: Larry Valencia
Produced: May 13, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

How will the Rhode Island Tea Party influence the 2010 election outcomes? Allow Colleen Conley to count the ways. And there are many ways, which Conley enumerates in this interview. She describes how the Tea Party movement has grown nationally and locally as a grassroots movement committed to changing the business and conduct of national and local politics to more closely reflect the views and wishes of taxpayers. Of course, this change begins with changing elected officials nationally and locally. Conley believes that the Tea Party movement has not only strengthened this change strategy, but also it has actually effectuated change in elected personnel. These changes will continue especially at the state and local levels in Rhode Island as more and more people have joined the Tea Party movement and are acquiring skill in changing the political landscape. Conley assures that the RI Tea Party shall continue to work collectively with similarly minded individuals and groups and to develop methods on its own to effect political change. Visit www.riteaparty.com for more information.

Program Note: This is the third in a series of interviews with good government group leaders intended to learn how each group individually and collectively will use its influence to shape the political discussion; to promote its issues and concerns and to address and to solve the very significant structural and political problems facing the State of Rhode Island and its citizens.


Watch Now

 

 

 

Ken Block Interview

Guest: Ken Block (MPRI) Candidate for Governor
Host: Bruce Lang
Produced: May 13, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

Moderate Party candidate for governor Ken Block is the human version of the energizer bunny. This small business owner operates two businesses and points out that RI small business owners pay 16% more in taxes because they live and conduct business in RI. Block founded a new political party by challenging one of the most stringent processes for doing so. Shortly thereafter, he began recruiting candidates to run for the general assembly and general offices. After a long vetting process for potential gubernatorial candidates, it became clear that Ken Block could best represent this new political party and centrist movement. Block asserts: "Moderate is not wishy, washy. A Moderate is a Centrist, which is where we want and need to be politically. And this nation is moving toward a more centrist position politically." Block believes that 2010 is a critical year for change in Rhode Island. He claims he can feel the buoyancy and support for his candidacy and the Moderate Party as he meets with people. For Block, the change needed is having both short term and long range plans for changing what needs to be changed in Rhode Island. In this interview, Ken Block offers specific plans for pension reform; property tax caps; removal of state imposed education mandates; vetting and eliminating fraud and waste; spending more wisely; revising the State budgeting process; and ceasing to pass State deficits to cities and towns.For more information visit www.kenblockforgovernor.com and www.moderate-ri.org.

Program Note: This is another in a series of interviews with candidates for general offices and the general assembly. The selection and scheduling of candidates was done by random selection.


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Patrick Lynch Interview

Guest: Patrick Lynch (D) Candidate for Governor
Host: Bruce Lang
Produced: April 22, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

Incumbent RI Attorney General Patrick Lynch is a candidate for Governor and will face off against Frank Caprio, Jr. in a Democratic Party primary election in September. Lynch acknowledges that the state is facing many problems; but the big problem is the economy and lack of jobs for Rhode Islanders. Behind any issue and problem solving is the question of leadership. Lynch asserts that he has demonstrated his leadership as Attorney General; and it will take leadership to bring all parties together to make the dramatic changes needed. The dramatic changes will involve both private and public sectors working together. Lynch believes that there has been a disproportionate amount of incentives given to big business; there needs to be a shift in incentives to support small businesses. This includes addressing regulations; fees; governmental interference and unresponsiveness; and small business loans so small business can be capitalized properly to increase productivity and jobs. Bruce Lang asks: What distinguishes Patrick Lynch from Frank Caprio and Lincoln Chaffee? Lynch asserts once again, that he has leadership and skill to bring together those who are parties to finding solutions. Visit www.lynch2010.org for more information.

Program Note: This is another in a series of interviews with candidates for general offices and the general assembly. The selection and scheduling of candidates was done by random selection.


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Victor Moffitt Interview

Guest: Victor Moffitt (R) Candidate for Governor
Host: Bruce Lang
Produced: April 22, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

Former state Representative Victor Moffitt is a candidate for Governor and will face off against John Robitaille in a Republican Party Primary in September. Moffitt labels himself as a "common sense fiscal conservative" and his personal life and professional practice bears witness to the accuracy of that label. He distinguishes himself as a person who has successfully worked in a nonpartisan way to pass legislation to benefit all Rhode Islanders. Moffitt believes that a governor must have the capacity to work with the legislature to fashion policies and law, which are in the best interest of Rhode Islanders. A further distinction, asserts Moffitt, is that he has developed plans, strategies, and corrective measures to address governmental mismanagement and missed opportunities. These measures have not been fashioned as campaign rhetoric but have developed and been analyzed throughout his tenure as a state representative, and a member of the House Finance Committee. Moffitt's plans include reducing taxes; reorganizing police and fire into five county departments; reforming education into four regional systems; consolidating services; a master plan for creating jobs and diminishing the loss of homegrown talent to other states; etc. Visit www.MOFFITTforGOVERNOR.com for more information.

Program Note: This is another in a series of interviews with candidates for general offices and the general assembly. The selection and scheduling of candidates was done by random selection.


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Lou Raptakis Interview

Guest: Lou Raptakis (D) Candidate for Secretary of State
Host: Spencer Dickinson
Produced: April 22, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

The incumbent state Senator Lou Raptakis is a candidate for Secretary of State. Elected to the general assembly in 1992, Lou recalls many troubled times and many challenges in conducting the people's business. He cites many legislative battles and accomplishments that have improved matters for the people and the workings of government. He pledges to bring his tenacity to the general office he now seeks. Raptakis views the role of the Secretary of State in the same way he views the role of the legislator: work hard for the people, advocate for their best interest; and be their watchdog. The specifics of his agenda include making citizen participation easier, especially with respect to elections and accessing the voting records of legislators. The latter he finds especially troubling and cites that RI is the only state, which does not post legislative votes online in real time or shortly after the votes are recorded. Such problems he would tackle. Being a small business man, he is especially sensitive to the many unnecessary regulations and encumbrances created by government, which contribute to the very poor business climate in this state, that most people acknowledge but do little about. Therefore, as Secretary of State, Raptakis vows to be a small business advocate, not simply the record keeper for the State. Visit www.raptakis2010.com for more information.

Program Note: This is another in a series of interviews with candidates for general offices and the general assembly. The selection and scheduling of candidates was done by random selection.


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Getting Rhode Island Ready for Electric Cars

Guest: Albert Dahlberg, Coordinator, Project Get Ready RI; &
Abigail Anthony, Policy Analyst, Environment Northeast (ENE)
Host: Spencer Dickinson
Produced: March 25, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

Project Get Ready is a national effort to help promote the use of electric cars. Project Get Ready R.I. is the local force behind the effort to get Rhode Island ready for electric cars. A collateral goal of this effort is to help reduce our dependency on and use of petroleum energy sources. Although electricity production uses petroleum fuels, the process is more efficient; less costly; and less polluting than the gasoline powered car, claim the guests. Therefore, electric cars can play a significant role in addressing many energy related issues. The guests believe that Rhode Island is uniquely situated to benefit because of the size of the state and the driving habits of the people. Getting Rhode Island ready involves coordinating many pieces of a large puzzle, which includes the availability of battery charging facilities throughout the community, at the work place and in residential homes. Advocating for the use of electric cars for businesses which have a fleet of automobiles that engage in local travel is part of the mind-changing and business practices changes that Project Get Ready is working on. This is an interesting discussion of the challenges and potential benefits of electric car use. Visit www.projectgetready.com and www.env-ne.org for more information.

Program Note: This is another program in the continuing series concerning energy matters and the greening of R.I. The series will generally look at the potential savings associated with greening efforts along with other conservation measures and renewable energy initiatives and their economic development implications.


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An Interview with Ralph Mollis

Guest: A. Ralph Mollis (D) Incumbent Candidate for Secretary of State
Host: Spencer Dickinson
Produced: April 8, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

The incumbent candidate for Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis is interviewed regarding his reelection bid as well as a Democrat primary. In another venue, Secretary Mollis has been very encouraging of candidates, acknowledging that this is a great time to run for elective office; however, he jokingly expressed the sentiment that he does not think it is a good time to run for Secretary of State. In this interview, he is good natured and very encouraging of those who seek elective office. He reminds them that he was not elected the first time for two previous offices sought; but eventually he was successful and without party endorsement at those particular times. Mollis talks with pride and a sense of accomplishment about the initiatives he has implemented and the priorities he has set for the remainder of his term and beyond. The Secretary of State offers specific examples of his accomplishments, while giving credit and expressing appreciation to very capable staff members, who have helped. Visit www.mollis2010.com for more information.

Program Note: This is the second in a series of interviews with candidates for general offices and the general assembly. The selection and scheduling of candidates was done by random selection.


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An Interview with John Robitaille

Guest: John Robitaille (R), candidate for Governor
Host: Bruce Lang
Produced: April 8, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

State of the State begins this election year candidate interview series with John Robitaille, Republican candidate for Governor. At this point in time there will be a Republican party primary election, which Robitaille acknowledges with positive acceptance, as he asserts that he will not run a negative campaign against other candidates. He plans to meet and speak with voters and emphasize the attributes he possesses, which fit the executive office well. He acknowledges that Rhode Island is facing extremely difficult circumstances and problems; but he is confident that these can be addressed and solved. He cites state spending; employee benefits; unfunded pensions; entitlement abuses; and inefficiencies and waste in government among the problems areas. Although many corrective actions can be implemented within the executive branch, Robitaille acknowledges that corrective actions require the cooperation and action of the General Assembly. Gaining General Assembly as well as public-employee union cooperation is a huge task but one at which he can be successful. Visit www.johnforgovernor.com for more information.

Program Note: This is the first in a series of interviews with candidates for general offices and the general assembly. The selection and scheduling of candidates was done by random selection.


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William Felkner on Election 2010 and the State of R.I.

Guest: William Felkner, Executive Director, Ocean State Policy Research Institute (OSPRI)
Host: Larry Valencia
Produced: April 8, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

Ocean State Policy Research Institute (OSPRI) Executive Director William Felkner plans to influence the outcomes of the 2010 election through information and education. The OSPRI website is the starting point where voters, candidates and campaign workers can obtain information, which Felkner believes will influence how people view and understand the problems Rhode Island is facing. With the right information, thinking is changed, public policy is changed, and voting practices are changed as well. OSPRI has implemented many different endeavors, such as its Transparency Train, which allow citizens to take a closer look at how public funds are being expended and to whom. Felkner asserts that logic and reasonable assumptions do not always hold up under scrutiny in Rhode Island. He cites as an example that regionalizing public schools actually costs more in RI rather than saving money. Felkner debunks many other commonly held assumptions about publicly funded education and entitlement programs. Visit www.oceanstatepolicy.org for more information.

Program Note: This is the second in a series of interviews with good government group leaders intended to learn how each group individually and collectively will use its influence to shape the political discussion; to promote its issues and concerns and to address and to solve the very significant structural and political problems facing the State of Rhode Island and its citizens.


Watch Now

 

 

 

Rhode Island Statewide Coalition (RISC) on Election 2010 and the State of R.I.

Guest: Harry Staley and Jeff Deckman, RISC
Host: Larry Valencia
Produced: March 25, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

Chairman Harry Staley and Jeff Deckman have a well measured plan to assert the influence of RISC into the Rhode Island political fabric and influence the outcomes of the 2010 election. Through the RISC Business Network and fundraising commitments from small business people and other like-minded individuals, Staley and Deckman expect to raise a huge amount of political contributions for a select group of general assembly candidates and help them get elected in order to create a more supportive small business attitude in the general assembly. Host Valencia and guests discuss RISC's strategies for wining seats in the general assembly as well as influencing general office positions. They talk about what is needed to correct some of the political, ethical and structural problems, which have prevented Rhode Island from being all it can be.
Visit www.statewidecoalition.com for more information about RISC and the RISC Business Network.

Program Note: This is the first in a series of interviews with good government group leaders intended to learn how each group individually and collectively will use its influence to shape the political discussion; to promote its issues and concerns and to address and to solve the very significant structural and political problems facing the State of Rhode Island and its citizens.


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Excerpts from Candidate School 2010, Morning Session

Produced: March 6, 2010
Run time:
30 minutes

The 5th Biennial OCG Candidate School took place on Saturday, March 6, 2010 with a huge number of candidates and campaign staff participants and a stellar faculty. The resounding buzz was this is a extremely important election year, which offers great opportunity for candidates with the right message and action plan. Here are five-minute excerpts from the six morning sessions.

  • Breakfast Speakers: Larry Valencia; Bruce Lang; John DePetro
  • Deadlines; filing requirements; etc.: A. Ralph Mollis, R.I. Secretary of State
  • Ethics Commission Rules: Jason Gramitt, R.I. Ethics Commission
  • Deciding to run; structuring your campaign; etc.: Victor Profughi, Political Consultant and Pollster
  • Fundraising and wise campaign spending: Seth Klaiman, Fundraising Consultant
  • Effective use of media and advertising: Tom Ward, Publisher-Valley Breeze and Dave Layman, Layman Communications

To obtain DVDs of these presentations in their entirety, contact Operation Clean Government by email at info@ocgri.org or by telephone at 401-861-3900.


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Chairman Robert Corrente on Election 2010 and the State of Rhode Island

Guest: Robert Corrente, Chairman, Moderate Party of RI
Host: Larry Valencia
Produced: March 11, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

New Chairman Robert Corrente takes the helm of the newly established Moderate Party of RI following former chairman and founder Ken Block's declaration that he (Block) is a gubernatorial candidate. Accustomed to huge challenges, Corrente takes on the challenges faced by this new political party with clarity and focus as the Moderate Party attempts to asserts itself into the Rhode Island political fabric. Host Valencia and Corrente discuss the Moderate Party's platform, its candidates, its strategies for wining seats in the general assembly as well as general office positions. They talk about what is needed to correct some of the political, ethical and structural problems, which have prevented Rhode Island from being all it can be. Visit www.moderate-ri.org or call 401-681-4966.

Program Note: This is the third in a series of interviews with political party chairmen intended to learn how each political party will use its influence to shape the political discussion; to promote its candidates; and to address and to solve the very significant structural and political problems facing the State of Rhode Island and its citizens.


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Scott Wolf Has Strategies to Grow RI Smartly

Guest: Scott Wolf, Executive Director, Grow Smart RI
Host: Barry Schiller
Produced: March 11, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

Scott Wolf of Grow Smart RI has many strategies to grow Rhode Island smartly. There was a time when the little state of Rhode Island was an economic giant. Business people, entrepreneurs and government officials understood the state's assets and resources and used them wisely to create great wealth and quality of life. Wolf asserts that we can recreate that era, if we once again understand our strengths and resources and begin to use them wisely or smartly once again. This is the essence and message of Grow Smart RI. Wolf claims that it can be done and it is being done across this state every day. Wolf offers examples in testimony to his assertions and claims. Visit www.growsmartri.com or call 401-273-5711.

Program Note: This is the first in a series of interviews with prominent and influential Rhode Islanders, who are working to create better approaches to living, working and growing in Rhode Island. We call this series "Make it RIght" as these individuals and groups are trying to do just that, Make Rhode Island Right.


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Providence Water ... A Historical View

Guest: David Nickerson, Manager of Communications, Providence Water
Host: Spencer Dickinson
Produced Feb 25, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

When was the last time you became concerned about your water supply? One of our most valuable and most taken-for-granted fundamental resources, the Scituate Reservoir and its distribution system is a product of the foresight and careful planning of our engineers and community leaders of a hundred years ago. Some of the history, thinking, development and planning for the future that makes it so useful and reliable today for a large part of Rhode Island is the topic of today's interview. Visit the Web site www.provwater.com

Program Note: This is another program in the continuing series concerning energy matters and the greening of R.I. The series will generally look at the potential savings associated with greening efforts along with other conservation measures and renewable energy initiatives and their economic development implications.


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The Rhode Island Political Scene Today

Guest: Edward Achorn, Deputy Editor of Editorial Pages, The Providence Journal
Moderator: Bruce Lang
Produced Feb 25, 2010 / Run time: 30 minutes

Continuing the series of interviews with prominent and influential Rhode Islanders, guest Edward Achorn and host Bruce Lang discuss the current personalities and issues in the very dynamic political scene in Rhode Island. A bit of the arcane hidden in Rhode Island's sports annals comes to light with talk about the guest's forthcoming book "Fifty-Nine in '84." Visit the Web site www.EdwardAchorn.com


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Giovanni Cicione on Election 2010 and the State of R.I.

Guest: Giovanni Cicione, Chairman, Republican Party of RI
Host: Larry Valencia
Produced: February 11 / Run time: 30 minutes

R.I. Republican Party Chairman Giovanni Cicione talks about many aspects of Election 2010 and the current condition of not only the State of Rhode Island but also the Republican Party of RI. Speaking first of the election win of Scott Brown in Massachusetts, Cicione cites the role RI Republicans played to assist in Brown's victory. Cicione asserts that this is a pivotal year in national, state and local politics and is optimistic that local Republican candidates will gain seats in the RI general assembly. Cicione also conceded that there is a rising tide of voter dissatisfaction and an undercurrent of anger with the performance of elected officials both federally and locally and these feelings offer a great opportunity to Republican candidates in the 2010 election. Cicione was eager to extend his optimism to include the Republican US Congressional candidates. (This was expressed prior to Patrick Kennedy's announcement not to seek reelection to the US Congress.)

Program Note: This is the second in a series of interviews with political party chairmen intended to learn how each political party will use its influence to shape the political discussion; to promote its candidates; and to address and to solve the very significant structural and political problems facing the State of Rhode Island and its citizens.


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An Interview with Joseph Paolino

Guest: Joseph Paolino
Host: Bruce Lang
Produced: February 11 / Run time: 30 minutes

A successful business man and real estate developer, Joseph Paolino also has a diverse political life, which includes Providence City Council member; Mayor of Providence; head of the RI Economic Development Corporation; and US Ambassador. This interesting discussion ranges far and wide: Who does and does not have the experience to be governor during these difficult times; changes in regulation necessary to promote business growth and job creation; consolidation of state and local government services; revamping government agencies so they are better not bigger; the state of the state and the state of Providence; neighborhood development and neighborhood crime; and what the rejuvenation of state and local government and the business sector will require in terms of resources and time. Was Paolino considering a run for Mayor of Providence again, the job he loved most? Find out.

Program Note: This is the eighth in a series of interviews with prominent and influential Rhode Islanders, past and present.


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The Rhode Island Ethics Commission in the Wake of the Irons Decision

Panelists: Tom Bender, author of Common Cause RI Brief; Barbara Binder, Chairwoman, RI Ethics Commission (RIEC); Mark Freel, author of RI ACLU Brief; Jason Gramitt, Staff attorney and author of RIEC Brief: John Marion, Executive Director, Common Cause RI; John Roney, Parliamentarian of RI Senate
Moderator: Ross Cheit, Professor at Brown University and RIEC Commissioner
Produced: September 16, 2009 / Part I (Run time: 60 min) and Part II (Run time: 30 min)

Common Cause RI and the A. Alfred Taubman Center at Brown University sponsored this panel discussion on Wednesday, September 16, 2009. State of the State was there to film this important event for broadcast as a special presentation. This ninety-minute panel discussion looks at the impact of the RI Supreme Court decision concerning RI Ethics Commission vs. William Irons.

Discussion of the forum and proposed changes to the RI Constitution

Panelists: John Marion, Executive Director, Common Cause RI
Moderator: Larry Valencia, President, Operation Clean Government
Produced: September 24, 2009 / Part III (Run time: 30 minutes
)


Part I
60 min.

 


Part II
30 min.

 


Part III
30 min.

 

 

 

 

 

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