Projo Politics Blog

House Speaker William J. Murphy, D-West Warwick, is now running for reelection unopposed, after his only challenger withdrew from the race.

West Warwick Democrat Michael Lombardi, 29, took out candidacy papers to challenge Murphy in a Democratic primary, then changed his mind for reasons he has chosen not to divulge.

Reached where he works in the Johnston law offices of former Rep. Joseph Voccola, Lombardi said: "Well, really, let's see, there's really ... nothing changed my mind, you know?''

So why did he withdraw? "I'd rather not comment on that to be quite honest with you.'' Was he urged to withdraw by anyone in the party establishment? "No, I never spoke to Mr. Murphy about it at all, actually.''

Pressed one more time for his reasons, he said: "Did you ask Mr. Murphy?''

Murphy offered no comment on his opponent's withdrawal and remarks. All he said in a brief statement issued by is spokesman, Larry Berman, was: "My understanding is that he decided not to run at this time.''

Murphy ran unopposed in 2006. In 2004, then-state GOP chairwoman Patricia Morgan agreed -- at Governor Carcieri's urging -- to take on Speaker Murphy in a contest for the House District 26 seat that represents parts of Coventry, West Warwick and Warwick. He beat her handily, with 58.95 percent of the vote to her 40.93 percent.

Lombardi is a newcomer to West Warwick politics, having changed his voting address from Providence to 450 Providence St., West Warwick, on May 29, 2008, according to the West Warwick Board of Canvassers.

Asked about a future campaign, Lombardi said: "I do have political ambitions. I have always been interested in politics and the issues. And it's something I'm not ruling out in the future, you know?''

-- Katherine Gregg, Journal State House Bureau

 Tags  Democrats General Assembly Gregg House Speaker Michael Lombardi R.I. elections West Warwick William Murphy

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