Sen. Perry, Rep. Ajello endorse Taveras

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - State Senator Rhoda Perry and State Representative Edith Ajello have endorsed Angel Taveras for Mayor of Providence and are urging city voters to support him.

“With his inspiring story of going from Head Start to Harvard through the Providence public school system, Angel Taveras is an incredible role model for our city’s children,” said Perry . “He is an engaging, talented lawyer who has the energy, insight, and determination to continue the progress towards excellence across the Renaissance City. He is just the kind of leader we need to turn around this economy and bring jobs back to Providence.”

Senator Perry has represented Providence’s East Side for nearly twenty years. She has served as the chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services since 2006 and served as the Senate’s Deputy President Pro Tempore from 1994 to 2006.

Representative Ajello has represented the Providence neighborhoods of College Hill and Wayland Square since 1992. She serves as chair of the House Committee to establish a permanent education funding formula and is also a member of the Judiciary Committee. For several years, Rep. Ajello has led the effort to establish a fair school funding formula and has also worked successfully in the private sector as manager of Rustigian Rugs.

“I’ve known Angel since he was at Classical High School with my children,” said Ajello. “Most recently, we’ve collaborated on legislation supporting voter rights, and he is always thorough, well-prepared, and easy to work with. He will bring his ethical, responsible, hard-working approach to city government. I couldn’t have asked for a better candidate.”

“I am humbled and honored by the support of Senator Perry and Representative Ajello, two amazing city leaders who have both spent the last two decades fighting to improve the lives of the people of Providence,” said Taveras. “Since the beginning of this campaign, I have been committed to uniting a broad and diverse coalition of city residents. With these endorsements, we continue to build that coalition.”

Since announcing his candidacy, Taveras has gained several supporters, including former state Senator Myrth York and Meeting St. Schoo l CEO, John Kelly.