PROVIDENCE -- State Rep. Steven F. Smith, D-Providence, made an informal, but significant announcement on Federal Hill this afternoon when spotted outside Venda Ravioli.

The 20-year State House veteran, who also serves as the president of the Providence teachers' union, said he would not run for re-election in November, despite having submitted the necessary paperwork with the Secretary of State's office last week.

Smith said he would not return his nominating petitions with the required signatures by the July 11 deadline.

In a brief conversation, he cited mounting frustration with the direction of the General Assembly, and specifically its refusal to consider blocking tax cuts for high earners to help close a massive budget deficit last month.

Smith's decision clears the way for Providence Democrat John Carnevale to claim the Democratic nomination.

There are no other Democratic opponents. And as of today, there is no Republican challenger for the District 13 seat, although the state GOP has asked the state Supreme Court to allow five appointed challengers to run, despite opposition from the local boards of canvassers.

If the Supreme Court complies, Carnevale would face off against Republican Damien Baldino in November.

-- Steve Peoples, Journal State House Bureau