Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos formally launched her re-election campaign Wednesday, rallying more than 100 supporters at Farm Fresh Rhode Island as she pitched herself as a champion for working families in an increasingly turbulent political climate.
Matos, a Democrat who took office in 2021, framed her candidacy around her personal story as a working-class immigrant from the Dominican Republic who learned English while working in a jewelry factory and later rose to become president of the Providence City Council before being appointed lieutenant governor.
“I don’t have the traditional politician’s story,” Matos told the crowd. “When I first decided to run for city council, it was because when I looked at government, I didn’t see many people who looked like me, who represented me.”
The announcement event drew a mix of labor leaders, local elected officials and nonprofit organizers. Speakers included East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva, state Rep. Grace Diaz, local business owner Alberto Durán and spoken word poet Marleny Luna.
Matos pointed to her record on food affordability, small business support, affordable housing, abortion rights and gun safety as reasons to grant her another term. She also took aim at the Trump administration, citing cuts to SNAP benefits and health care access.
“It’s crucial we have a relentless advocate fighting on our behalf,” she said.
Since becoming lieutenant governor, Matos has focused on efforts to lower grocery prices, grow small businesses, strengthen gun safety laws, protect voting rights and support veterans and seniors.
Before entering statewide office, Matos immigrated to the United States at age 20 and worked in a clothing factory before settling in Providence. As city council president, she pushed initiatives focused on affordable housing, supporting women in leadership and protecting reproductive freedom.
