By Thomas J. Morgan
Journal Staff Writer

PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- Sen. John J. Tassoni Jr., who has all but announced formally that he is a candidate for lieutenant governor, said Thursday that he has commissioned JH Communications, of Providence, to direct his campaign.

Tassoni, a Democrat who represents Smithfield and North Smithfield and has served five terms, thus joins Rep. Edwin Pacheco, D-Burrillville, and Rep. Elizabeth Dennigan, D-East Providence, in expressing an interest in the number two spot.

Tassoni's announcement came in a press release headed "John Tassoni/lieutenant governor." He said he is assembling an election committee.

JH communications provided consulting and public relations services to Tassoni and several other office-holders in the 2008 race for the General
Assembly.