Annika Melwani

Behind the bookstore Riffraff in Olneyville, a crowd of David Morales’s campaign supporters and volunteers gathered. Despite the rain, the energy was just as electric as the pop music playing over event speakers.

Providence Mayor Brett Smiley is making a bid for a second term this fall. But in the Sept. 9 Democratic primary, Smiley faces a formidable challenge from State Rep. David Morales MPA’19 (D-Providence). On Friday, The Herald sat down with each candidate to discuss their political background and goals if elected — on issues that have split Rhode Island Democrats in the run-up to the Sept. 9 primary. A R.I. resident for 20 years, Smiley says he has stayed committed to the power of local government.

This Wednesday, incumbent Mayor Brett Smiley and State Rep. David Morales MPA’19 (D-Providence) will face off for Providence's Democratic mayoral nomination. In a city where the last Republican mayor left office over four decades ago, whoever wins the Democratic primary will likely become the favorite in November's general election.