Brett Smiley reaffirms opposition to Providence rent control after the primary
Mayor of Providence and 2026 Democratic mayoral-primary candidate
“I do believe it will make things worse and not better in Providence for home affordability.”
Source and context
Interview
About this source
In this post-primary interview, Smiley says he studied comparable policies, continues to think his rent-control veto was the right decision, and argues that the policy would worsen rather than improve home affordability in Providence.
Archived copy (opens in a new tab)Before the quotation
After losing the Democratic primary, Smiley was asked about his earlier veto of the rent-stabilization ordinance.
After the quotation
Smiley said he respects the voters’ decision despite his disappointment and described rent control as a major policy difference between him and Morales.
How this statement is classified
Case context: Should Providence cap annual rent increases at 4%?
The label describes this statement’s response within the context above.
Why this label?
The case asks whether Providence should adopt a 4% annual rent-increase limit. Smiley says the policy would make home affordability worse and reaffirms his veto, which is a direct substantive objection to adoption.
- Recorded on
- Published here
Should Providence cap annual rent increases at 4%?
Explore the case context, sources and public responses.
More from this case
Read the full case“In January, I intend to work with the city council when they reintroduce the rent stabilization ordinance.”Read statement
“After years of community organizing, the Providence City Council has passed Rent Stabilization!”Read statement
“In Providence, this ordinance would also shift the tax burden onto single-family homeowners...”Read statement