East Providence, RI – Democratic candidate Kim Ahern is campaigning for the office of Rhode Island Attorney General, promising to defend state residents’ rights and to bring a measured, safety‑first approach to the state’s cannabis program.
Professional background
Ahern earned a reputation prosecuting more than 1,000 cases while serving in the Attorney General’s Office, handling serious crimes such as murder, sexual assault, domestic violence and human trafficking. After leaving the office, she served as legal advisor to Governors Gina Raimondo and Dan McKee, and was appointed chair of the state’s Cannabis Control Commission, a role she held until stepping down to run for attorney general.
Policy priorities
In an interview with NBC 10, Ahern said her top priority would be to create a dedicated unit to protect reproductive and abortion rights, noting that Rhode Island codified those rights in 2019 but that continued vigilance is needed. She criticized President Trump’s stated intent to roll back abortion protections nationwide, calling it a direct threat to Rhode Island families.
Ahern also emphasized three guiding principles for the Cannabis Control Commission: safety, equity and transparency. She defended the commission’s decision to forgo rapid licensing in favor of a fair lottery system, arguing that it shields the industry from “know‑a‑guy” favoritism and protects consumers.
Response to criticism
Critics have complained about long wait times and costs for prospective dispensary owners. Ahern responded that the commission’s mandate was to follow the law, not to rush approvals. She pointed to a recent federal judge’s order halting the licensing process until state law was amended, saying the ruling underscored the need for careful oversight.
Legal actions against the federal administration
Ahern praised the current Attorney General, Peter Neronha, for filing lawsuits against the Trump administration when federal actions threatened Rhode Island’s human‑service agencies, domestic‑violence programs and other core values. She pledged to continue that aggressive defense of state interests, whether the opponent is a federal official, a corporation or any other entity.
Looking ahead
Facing Republican challenger Alan Gordon in the November 2026 general election, Ahern says she will evaluate each case individually and work toward just outcomes for Rhode Islanders. Her campaign stresses a commitment to protecting families, faith‑based communities and the state’s economic bottom line.
Voters can learn more about Ahern’s platform and upcoming events by visiting her campaign website or attending scheduled town‑hall meetings across the state.
Original reporting: NBC 10 WJAR (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
