Rhode Island Democrat Lawmaker Arrested for DUI, Ordered to Install Car Breathalyzer
Rhode Island State Representative Enrique Sanchez, a Democrat from Providence, has found himself at the center of a scandal after being arrested for driving under the influence (DUI). Following his court appearance, his driver’s license was suspended, and he has been ordered to install a breathalyzer device in his vehicle to prevent further incidents.
DUI Arrest Details
The incident occurred in the early hours of February 3, 2025, when police in Cranston, Rhode Island, discovered Sanchez’s vehicle stopped at a green light around 3 a.m. Officers approached the car and immediately noticed the strong smell of alcohol, along with Sanchez’s bloodshot, watery eyes.
When questioned, Sanchez denied drinking alcohol, instead claiming that his condition was due to taking Adderall for ADHD. However, when asked to complete a field sobriety test, he refused and instead suggested calling an Uber—a request that did not prevent his arrest.
Court Ruling and License Suspension
During his initial court appearance, Sanchez pleaded not guilty to the DUI charge, but the judge suspended his driver’s license. However, he was granted a hardship license, which allows him to drive only for work-related purposes between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
As a condition of his limited driving privileges, Sanchez is required to install an ignition interlock device in his vehicle—a breathalyzer that prevents the car from starting if alcohol is detected.
Public Backlash and Calls for Resignation
The arrest has ignited calls for Sanchez to step down, with critics arguing that his reckless behavior disqualifies him from public office. For over a week, Sanchez remained silent on the incident, before finally addressing the matter on social media. In his statement, he refused to take responsibility for his actions and instead pivoted to defending his role as a legislator, stating:
“I will not let my personal actions become a distraction from the issues that truly matter—the families, businesses, and concerns of my community.”
Many constituents and political observers have not been satisfied with his response, believing it to be a deflection rather than an apology.
Legal Representation and Political Future
Sanchez has enlisted the help of former Rhode Island House Speaker John Harwood as his defense attorney. The case, which was initially in district court, has now been moved to state Superior Court, where further proceedings are expected.
As a first-term legislator elected in 2022, Sanchez has made a name for himself as a progressive firebrand. He previously pushed for controversial policies, including a bill to allow illegal immigrants to vote in Rhode Island elections—a proposal that was ultimately tabled due to widespread opposition.
Conclusion: A Pattern of Poor Judgment?
Sanchez’s DUI arrest and lack of accountability have raised serious questions about his judgment and fitness for public office. With legal proceedings ongoing and political pressure mounting, his future as a state representative remains uncertain.
This incident serves as yet another example of the hypocrisy and lack of accountability among Democrat lawmakers, many of whom preach responsibility while failing to live up to the standards they impose on others. Whether Sanchez resigns or attempts to ride out the controversy, one thing is clear: the people of Rhode Island deserve better.