A major focus of Frank T. Caprio’s campaign for governor has been small business, the result of which are these policy proposals targeted at that segment of the economy:
• Realign tax credits.
• Improve access to capital.
• Lower the cost of health insurance.
• Increase state contracting with Rhode Island companies.
• Create an Office of the Small Business Advocate.
Mr. Caprio, a Democrat who currently serves as the state’s general treasurer, settled on these priorities after visiting more than 100 small businesses. He clearly listened well.
Former U.S. Sen. Lincoln Chafee, an independent, is in a close race with Mr. Caprio. We fear, however, that the independence that served Mr. Chafee well in Washington is taking an alarming turn in Rhode Island.
Two recent problems:
• A suggestion that it might make sense to sue R.I. Economic Development Corporation board members if the 38 Studios deal turns sour.
• His wrong-headed proposal to raise the state's sales tax misses a key point. Both Connecticut and Massachusetts exempt lower-cost clothing sales. Adding such a tax burden in Rhode Island won't encourage people to spend more.
The Republican nominee, John Robitaille, also advances a business-friendly agenda. And because of that, a vote for him may cost Mr. Caprio support and thus help Mr. Chafee.
In reality, this is a two-man race. Thus for his thoughtfulness, his experience and his promise to support small business as a lynchpin to economic success for the state, we endorse Frank Caprio for governor. •
Have the editors of this publication read the recent Wall Street Journal about Mr. Caprio or are they trying to bury the story?
Have the editors re-read Mr. Caprio’s comments when he spoke to the state workers union? Not quite as business friendly as his other, more public, comments.