Rhode Island Commerce Secretary Stefan Pryor has joined the Democratic field for treasurer.
“I am proud to announce my candidacy for the office of General Treasurer,” Pryor said in a a statement. “Serving as Rhode Island’s Secretary of Commerce for the past seven years has been a true privilege. I thank both Governors Raimondo and McKee for the opportunity. In the position of Treasurer, I aim to continue our work on strengthening Rhode Island’s finances and advancing our economy.
“The last two years have been very challenging for small businesses and industries impacted by the pandemic – and for Rhode Island’s families,” he continued. “We envision a Treasurer’s office that is a catalyst for the economy, creating a stronger financial future for retirees and for all Rhode Islanders, supporting small and minority-owned businesses, helping families access the banking system, and more.”
Pryor’s entry sets up a primary battle with former Central Falls Mayor James Diossa.
He said he will transition out of his state job over the next two weeks.
In a statement, Diossa’s campaign manager said that while the democratic process means welcoming other candidates to the race, “It’s disappointing that another candidate is trying to divide the party on the same day the Republican candidate is set to kick off his campaign.”
Diossa said, “During my eight years as Mayor of Central Falls, I navigated my city through bankruptcy. And I am proud to say I left Central Falls in a position where it can continue to thrive as Rhode Island’s Comeback City.”
Diossa’s campaign noted how it raised more in last quarter than any other candidate outside of the race for governor.
Pryor joined former Gov. Gina Raimondo’s administration after she took office in 2015 and he’s continued serving as commerce secretary with Gov. Dan McKee.
Pryor, a Providence resident, has been considered a prospective candidate for treasurer for months.
The primary is September 13.
RI’s current treasurer, Seth Magaziner, is one of six Democrats running for an open seat in the 2nd Congressional District.
On the Republican side, former municipal official James Lathrop is formally announcing his run Tuesday.
This story has been updated.
