JOHNSTON, R.I. (WPRI) — A statewide police union’s endorsement has become the latest flashpoint in one of Rhode Island’s most competitive General Assembly races this fall.
The state chapter of the International Brotherhood of Police Officers (IBPO) initially endorsed Democratic candidate Kelsey Coletta for R.I. House District 42, located in Johnston and Cranston. She is running to replace state Rep. Edward Cardillo Jr. after defeating him in the September primary.
WATCH: Where They Stand: RI House District 42 candidate Kelsey Coletta
“I am honored to be endorsed by the International Brotherhood of Police Officers,” Coletta wrote in a social media post on Oct. 18 that has since been deleted. “I look forward to working alongside our IBPO officers in Johnston and Cranston to make sure we are meeting the needs of our communities.”
A few days later, 12 News learned that the IBPO had rescinded its endorsement.
The campaign of Republican candidate Richard Fascia has been touting that reversal to criticize Coletta on the campaign trail. The endorsement’s retraction was mentioned on new literature distributed by Fascia’s campaign promoting support he’s received from the state chapter of the Fraternal Order of Police.