Top News Stories in Providence , RI in 2006

Providence, RI is the small capital of one of our smallest states. But in 2006, Providence was not without a few top news stories that captured attention locally, throughout New England and in some cases even nationally. Among the key events that stirred interest, these three stood out.

1. Retiring the Chafee Name Providence , RI is the capital not only of a small state, but also of a very "blue", i.e. Democratic , state as well. In Providence and throughout the state , Democrats have dominated political power quite thoroughly and for a long time. During that history of Democratic control, at least one Republican name was able to wedge itself firmly into the minds and hearts of voters in "Little Rhody". That name is Chafee.

John Chafee was successfully selected to posts first as Governor of Rhode Island and then for three consecutive terms as U. S. Senator. When John Chafee was stricken in office and died, his son, Lincoln Chafee was appointed to serve out his father's term. In 2000, Lincoln Chafee was elected in his own right to serve as U. S. Senator from Rhode Island.

With this long standing relationship of affection between a family and a state, it was a top news story in Providence , RI in 2006 when Lincoln Chafee was unseated in his attempt to win a second term on his own in the U. S. Senate. Even though Lincoln Chafee could be correctly labeled a moderate among Republicans, he was, along with many other Republicans, a victim of anti-war, anti-Bush and anti-Republican currents throughout the country. That there was no longer a Chafee in the U. S. Senate was a top news story in Providence, RI. in 2006

2. Casino Vote Goes Down Starting with the efforts of now incarcerated Mayor Buddy Cianci, Providence, RI has experienced a dramatic and robust rebirth. During this process of growth and change, powerful business interests have pressed hard for the creation and construction of a casino in the Providence area.