In the bustling realm of political travel, frequent interstate and international trips are commonplace. Notably, Rhode Island’s Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos marked her name as the most regular traveler in 2023 within the state government, outstripping even General Treasurer James Diossa. A closer examination of Matos’ wanderings reveals that they significantly centered around activities related to presidential aspirants Joe Biden and subsequently, Kamala Harris. Though the foundation upon which these trips stood could be criticized as a superficial display of administrative prowess instead of focusing on tangible local issues.
In arguably a more restrained display of interstate mobility, Gov. Dan McKee confined his out-of-state journeying to a total of 55 days, which is a striking contrast to the 90 days Gina Raimondo spent beyond state borders in 2017. Could it be seen as McKee prioritizing local governance over indulging in extensive travels, or is it merely a political game of optics? Even so, the scattered presence of Rhode Island’s political figures across various global points – Belgium, Canada, Taiwan, Portugal, and Israel – fails to hide their evident inclinations for overseas ventures.
Historically speaking, Rhode Island has been a hotbed for significant national conclaves. Its strategic location, coupled with the enticing allure of potential backers and continual fundraising galas, has led to a surge in political voyages. For instance, the former Governor, Gina Raimondo, had been out of state for an astounding 90 days in 2017, furthering the narrative of politicians prioritizing personal ambition over the cities they govern.
Last year, Lt. Gov. Matos found herself involved heavily in events related to the presidential race, spending time in Philadelphia and Las Vegas. The Democratic National Convention held in Chicago and multiple White House occasions also marked significant entries in her travel itinerary. A growing concern is whether such trips truly serve Rhode Island’s interests or if they merely advance the ambitions of high-level state officials, especially when trips serve party politics rather than bipartisan needs.
Nearing a quarter of Matos’ total travels in 2023 involved tourism meetings in diverse locales – from San Juan, Puerto Rico, to an illustrious National Supermarket Association gala in Atlantic City and a Democratic Lieutenant Governors Association event in Sacramento, California. However, sheimized, could Rhode Island benefit more from a locally engaged leader rather than an absentee lieutenant governor?
Interestingly, then-Lt. Gov. Dan McKee also capitalized on opportunities to traverse afar. His journey to Taiwan stirred a brief whirl of controversy – a reflection of a society increasingly critical of its political figures. And rightly so, given how public funds to the tune of $6,586 were expended on Matos’ combined trips.
In an unexpected turn of events, General Treasurer James Diossa dialed back his out-of-state endeavors after a 74-day spree in 2023, effectively echoing the sentiment leaning towards a more disciplined and state-focused leadership. Diossa’s austerity extended to the expenditure too, with no state funds or third-party contributions reported on his travels.
Gov. Dan McKee compiled a track record of 55 out-of-state days across 14 trips in a year, costing state taxpayers a considerable sum of $12,949. The financial implications bring to light the cost of maintaining political appearances and raise questions about the impact on the constituents’ trust.
Attorney General Peter Neronha, too, had an extended away-from-home schedule, with 45 out-of-state days to his name, 16 of which were officially marked as business days. The Attorney General’s escapades involved a variety of destinations, from a trip to France’s Normandy region to conferences in Seattle and Deadwood, South Dakota. But could local concerns have been better addressed in the presence of the ever-absent Attorney General?
Secretary of State Gregg Amore continued the trend of interstate travels taking precedence over home-grown work with his 15 trips spanning 37 days. Significant among these was a visit to a gathering of progressive political activists in Baltimore, where Amore served as a panelist. The attempt at spreading progressive ideas, however, do not seem to be having any meaningful resonance back home.
Curiously, Portugal tops the list of overseas destinations frequented by Rhode Island’s lawmakers, courtesy of invitations from a Portuguese economic development group. From a critical point of view, off-shore travels may not necessarily yield benefits commensurate with their costs; a situation further compounded when the outcomes of such interactions remain largely undisclosed.
Despite the Gulf War, Rhode Island’s politicians did not shy away from setting foot in Israel. Various other international voyages included Greece, a conference at Brussels, Belgium, and even Toronto. One wonders, are these visits associated with real diplomatic endeavors, or mere political posturing?
State Representative Karen Alzate led the chart in terms of individual voyages last year, undertaking a whopping 16 trips – albeit only to domestic locations. On a different note, the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), a non-profit entity, organizes itineraries like the one to Taiwan, intending to draft model legislation. But are these neatly designed, often opaque trips genuinely benefiting our local communities?
Lastly, the novice Senate President Valarie Lawson had the opportunities to travel internationally last year – to Taiwan – even before she was anointed as a majority leader. A clear testament to the sovereignty individual ambitions often enjoy over collective interests.