Projo Politics Blog

CRANSTON -- Mark Zaccaria, a Republican business owner from North Kingstown, this morning announced his plan to run against Democrat U.S. Rep. Jim Langevin in the 2008 election.

Langevin represents Rhode Island's 2nd Congressional District.

Zaccaria called Langevin "a good man," but claimed he is biased "in favor of big government" and has shown a "willingness to fund increased bureaucracy through tax mandates."

"Congressman Langevin has served in the Rhode Island House and the U.S. House, but I don't think he understands the problems you face in your house," Zaccaria said.

Zaccaria says that Congress seems incapable of addressing the country's economic problems at a time when the United States is facing a "colossal housing marketing collapse," and people are losing their homes.

Zaccaria called Langevin's recently filed universal health care bill "a feel good piece of legislation. It won't accomplish its objectives."

Langevin, who filed his bill last month, wants to provide coverage for all Americans through a system modeled after the program that provides health benefits to federal employees.

Joy Fox, a spokeswoman for the congressman, said Langevin welcomed Zaccaria to the race and was looking forward to a "vigorous debate" of the issues.

Zaccaria, who has lived in Rhode Island for 10 years, formerly served as a town councilman in North Kingstown. He owns Rustin Marketing Services. He and his wife have three grown children.

-- With reports from projo.com staff writer Brandie M. Jefferson and Journal staff writer Mark Arsenault

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