Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7786

Introduced
2/12/26  

Caption

Proposes an amendment to the State Constitution, Article IV, Section 1, that would allow a non-partisan election of the secretary of state, commencing with the 2030 election.

Impact

By implementing a non-partisan election for the secretary of state, H7786 could alter the political landscape in Rhode Island. This change may appeal to voters who are increasingly frustrated with partisan divisions and seek candidates that prioritize state governance over party loyalty. Over time, the bill could lead to a shift in how candidates campaign, focusing on independent platforms and reducing the influence of party machinery in the candidate selection process.

Summary

House Bill 7786 proposes an amendment to the State Constitution, changing the election process for the secretary of state to a non-partisan format. This change will take effect starting with the election in 2030. The bill aims to eliminate political party affiliations during election campaigns for the secretary of state, thereby focusing more on the qualifications and policies of individual candidates rather than their party labels. The main goal behind this amendment is to foster a more impartial and less politically influenced electoral process for this significant state office.

Contention

While proponents of the bill argue that a non-partisan election system will enhance the democratic process and ensure that the secretary of state acts independently of partisan interests, there are concerns from some political circles. Critics may argue that the non-partisan election format could diminish the support structural mechanisms provided by political parties, making it more challenging for less known or funded candidates to gain traction in high-stakes races. The discussion around the bill highlights a broader debate on the role of political parties in state governance and the efficacy of non-partisan elections.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5086

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE, PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE STATE -- FOUR YEAR TERMS FOR REPRESENTATIVES AND SENATORS (Proposes an amendment to the State Constitution, Article IV, Section 1, that would allow four (4) year terms for general assembly members, commencing with the 2028 election.)

RI H5139

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE, PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE STATE -- FOUR YEAR TERMS AND TERM LIMITS FOR REPRESENTATIVES AND SENATORS (Proposes an amendment to the State Constitution, Article IV, Section 1, that would create four (4) year terms for general assembly members and impose term limits of three (3) full four (4) year terms on said members commencing with the 2028 election.)

RI H5311

Allows the board of elections to tabulate mail ballots in local special elections in the same manner as in tabulate mail ballots in statewide elections.

RI S0815

Allows the board of elections to tabulate mail ballots in local special elections in the same manner as in tabulate mail ballots in statewide elections.

RI S0725

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF THE LEGISLATIVE POWER (Proposes a state constitutional amendment that no department or other entity created by the state would have poser to incur debt in excess of $ 50,000, without express approval from the legislature and voters.)

RI H5732

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION – GREEN AMENDMENT (Proposes a constitutional amendment to Article 1 providing for a right to clean air, soil, climate, and the environment’s natural values.)

RI H5515

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF SUFFRAGE (Would propose to the voters of the state a constitutional amendment regarding eligibility to vote and to be a candidate.)

RI S0820

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF SUFFRAGE (Would propose to the voters of the state a constitutional amendment regarding eligibility to vote and to be a candidate.)

RI S0327

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- GREEN AMENDMENT (Proposes a constitutional amendment to Article 1 providing for a right to clean air, soil, climate, and the environment’s natural values.)

RI H5315

Allows retired election officials to work for the state board of elections on a temporary basis in any year in which a statewide, congressional or referendum general election is held.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.