In the last few years, we’ve had elected officials who lied about where they lived (and wrapped T-shirts around their head to hide from the press), took vacations on lobbyists’ dime, and embezzled tens of thousands of dollars from the State. This behavior continues because even though a few have gone to jail, most seem to escape any real consequences.

Being an elected official shouldn’t mean you get a special set of rules. It should mean you are held to a higher standard. Campaign accounts should be regularly audited so the public can be sure legislators are not misusing funds. Officials’ financial disclosures should be checked to confirm they are being honest about their financial stakes in projects they’re voting on.

We can never restore Rhode Islanders’ trust in their government if elected officials continue to put protecting their friends, and their interests, over the needs of those they represent.

Laufton Ascencao

Bristol

Mr. Ascencao is a Democratic candidate for R.I. House of Representatives District 68.