David Cicilline announced he will seek reelection as Mayor of Providence in 2010 and will not run for governor.  Cicilline's approval ratings have dropped lately, and General Treasurer Frank Caprio is leading early polls and has already raised over $1 million.  I think Cicilline wanted to run, but realized he had no chance: Appearing to fire an employee to cover up favors for campaign contributors, a crooked brother, multiple tax increases, etc.  Any reasonable person would know they faced an uphill battle.  However, this was not the case.  David Cicilline hasn't abandoned his gubernatorial aspirations because he doesn't have a chance, he abandoned them for us.  That's right, just read this excerpt:

"We have achieved a great deal in the past six years -- maybe more than many of us expected -- but the job is not done and we are in the midst of a serious financial crisis. It is not a time to change focus," Cicilline said.

     Providences needs David Cicilline.  At least that's what he thinks.  He stands a much better chance of winning a third term as Mayor, than he would of being our next Governor.  With that said, I don't think it will be clear sailing.  Any Republican candidate faces an uphill battle in Providence, but a well-funded Democrat could prevent Cicilline from even making it past the primaries.  If he isn't challenged by a fellow Democrat, I would be shocked.


http://newsblog.projo.com/2009/03/alert-cicilline.html