Retirees from Rhode Island’s public sector have thrown their support behind Republican candidate Micholas Credle in the race for state general treasurer. Credle, a 45‑year‑old military veteran, says his platform centers on restoring pension benefits that were reduced under the 2011 pension reform.
Credle’s pension proposal
Credle told NBC 10 News that he plans to “look for waste” in the pension system and, if funds are available, push the General Assembly to restore benefits for retirees. He emphasized that his goal is to give older workers “a little more dignity and respect” in the last five, ten or fifteen years of their lives. The 2011 reform, which was intended to stabilize an under‑funded pension fund, set benchmarks that have not yet been met, and restoring the cuts could cost tens of millions of dollars. Credle argues that by cutting inefficiencies he can free up money for those retirees.
Background and finances
Credle moved to Rhode Island seven years ago after retiring from the Army, where he worked in human‑resources. He receives a military disability pension and runs a social club at the Mason’s Lodge in Newport, a position he says is unpaid. In a recent interview, he asserted that his personal finances are in order and that he has no financial problems.
However, a Providence Journal report revealed that Credle admitted in court that he had not paid child support since February. When NBC 10 asked whether this indicated a problem managing money, Credle responded, “I do not,” and claimed the lapse was not due to financial inability. He said his ex‑wife’s failure to uphold her side of a prior agreement led him to pause payments, but he has now agreed to resume child‑support obligations.
Campaign messaging
Credle positioned himself as more qualified than incumbent Democrat James Diossa, who has served as general treasurer for the past four years. He told NBC 10, “I’m smarter than him, just being honest. I have better ideas, better plans, better management skills. I can manage people, processes, and money better than him.” The candidate also expressed skepticism about 529 college savings plans, describing them as a poor investment choice.
Retiree endorsement
A group of retired public‑sector workers has organized a rally to support Credle, citing his pledge to restore pension benefits. “I am trying to restore what they’ve lost,” Credle said at the event. “I’m going to try and give them something, so they can live the last years of their life with a little more dignity and respect.”
Election context
The treasurer’s race is shaping up as a contest between Credle’s promise to revive pension benefits and Diossa’s record in office. While Credle’s personal‑finance controversy may raise questions for some voters, his supporters argue that his military background and focus on fiscal responsibility align with the values of many Rhode Island retirees.
Original reporting: NBC 10 WJAR (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
