From the Wrestling Ring to City Hall: Young Democratic Socialist Surges in Providence, Rhode Island Mayoral Race

BY THEODORE HAMM | THE INDYPENDENT

A young democratic socialist state legislator makes a bid for city hall. The insurgent’s agenda identifies affordable housing as the central issue. The leftist lends theatrical flair to his campaign. 

The stage is a bit smaller—the population of Providence, Rhode Island, is just under 200,000—but David Morales is taking the baton from Zohran Mamdani. Instead of lyrical dexterity, Morales is known for his aerial takedowns.  

First elected as a Rhode Island state representative in 2020, Morales turns 28 one week after the Democratic primary on September 9. He is attempting to unseat Brett Smiley, a corporate Dem in his first term. Smiley recently vetoed legislation aimed at implementing rent stabilization in Providence—and, if elected, Morales vows to push it forward.