Ed Pacheco ends campaign for Congress

Cites the challenge of raising money as another reason why we need campaign finance reform

Two months ago, I announced my candidacy for Congress to fight on behalf of working families and champion important issues such as prioritizing public education, protecting our democracy, fighting for social justice, and emerging from the pandemic stronger than before. Since that time, I have been humbled by the number of family, friends and neighbors who have offered their support. 

They, like me, recognize how important this election is for the future of our state and country and that we must again send a Democrat to Washington to represent Rhode Island’s Second Congressional District.

 

While public service has always been a part of my life and I believe it is important to elect candidates committed to bettering the lives of others, I have decided to suspend my campaign for Congress. Recognizing the amount of resources necessary to run a competitive campaign, I’ve concluded it would be extraordinarily difficult to raise the money in this election cycle. 

This experience signals for me the need for campaign finance reform, leveling the playing field for everyday Americans to participate in our Democracy. Rhode Island’s future is bright because of its amazing people. Our strength comes from empowering each other and ensuring that future generations have more opportunities than the last.

 

As a lifelong Democrat and former chairperson of the RI Democratic Party, you can be assured I will do my part to send a Democrat to Congress in 2022. Fortunately, we have several talented candidates seeking the Democratic nomination. I look forward to continuing to advocate for the issues that motivated me to consider running for Congress in the first place.

 

Sincerely, 

Ed Pacheco 

EDITOR’S NOTE: When Ed led the state Democratic Party, he was a frequent visitor to Charlestown and a good friend to local Democrats and progressives. I appreciated his good humor, shrewd political insights and his friendship. I wish him well and hope this will not be the last time he tries to return to elected office.  – Will Collette