Rep Newberry: 2026 H8282 - Opposes Electronic Nomination Signatures - House Session(43026)

Remarks by Representative Brian C. Newberry (R District 48 - North Smithfield, Burrillville) during the floor debate on 2026 House Bill 8282 (An Act Relating to Elections -- Nomination of Party & Independent Candidates). The proposed legislation, introduced on behalf of the Secretary of State, aims to alter the signature-gathering process for political candidates.

Representative Newberry speaks in opposition to the bill, arguing that the existing requirement to gather signatures is a necessary and appropriate "hurdle" for anyone seeking public office. He cautions that removing this step and making ballot access too easy could result in overcrowded ballots filled with uncommitted candidates. Highlighting that there should be a required level of effort to get on the ballot, Newberry urges his colleagues in the House to vote down the measure.

House Bill No. 8282
(Secretary of State)
BY Voas, Alzate, Stewart, Giraldo, Shanley, Edwards, Bennett, Dawson, Caldwell, Morales
ENTITLED, AN ACT RELATING TO ELECTIONS -- NOMINATION OF PARTY AND INDEPENDENT CANDIDATES (Makes several amendments to provide for an online nomination paper portal for election nomination papers.)
{LC5962/1}
» http://webserver.rilegislature.gov/BillText/BillText26/HouseText26/H8282.pdf

State Representative Brian C. Newberry
» https://www.rihousegop.org/repnewberry.html

Rhode Island House Republicans
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