Emily Conklin, a science communication specialist and chair of Newport’s Energy and Environment Commission, announced Monday she is running for the Ward 2 seat on the Newport City Council.
Conklin, a six-year resident of Ward 2, said her campaign will center on affordability, resilient infrastructure, climate readiness and government transparency.
“I have seen far too many people struggle with the high cost of living, the loss of accessible housing, and other challenges,” Conklin said in a statement. “I want to serve my community in elected office to ensure these stories and lived realities are considered in a transparent decision-making process. I’m running for Newport City Council to take bold action for a livable future for our neighbors.”
The Ward 2 seat is currently held by Lynn Underwood Ceglie, who serves as vice chair of the City Council.
Conklin has chaired the city’s Energy and Environment Commission and served on the panel for four years. She also works as a poll worker during local elections and has attended nearly every City Council meeting over the past five years, often posting real-time commentary and analysis of policy discussions, according to her campaign.
“Working as a scientist, educator, and communicator has shown me that nothing happens in a vacuum — we have to work together to build the future we want to see,” Conklin said.
Her campaign will hold a kickoff event on Sunday, May 31, at 2 p.m. at the Tavern on Broadway.
More information is available at conklinfornewport.com.
