Jumping into one race, while quitting another. Seth Magaziner made a run for Congress official Wednesday, after days of speculation.
Magaziner, Rhode Island’s general treasurer, had been in the governor’s race.
Standing in front of a stage at the William Hall Library in Cranston, Magaziner changed the script in the middle of this election cycle.
He’s now seeking the 2nd Congressional District seat being vacated by Rep. Jim Langevin at the end of this term.
Just over four months ago, Magaziner stood in East Providence announcing his candidacy for governor.
The treasurer claims he made the decision to switch which office he is seeking because it’s how he can best serve Rhode Islanders.
"We are living in a very challenging and dangerous time. The Republicans in Washington are trying to turn back the clock on voting rights, on democracy, on women’s rights, on workers’ rights, and I am ready to be a part of that fight," Magaziner said. "Democrats have to hold this seat, period. This is the defining fight of our generation, what is happening in Washington, D.C., right now."
"We need a candidate on the Democratic ticket who has run in the district, won in the district, represented the district for the past seven years as I have as state treasurer," Magaziner added.
Magaziner lives in part of Providence that is not in the 2nd District. The Constitution does not require a U.S. representative to live in their district, only the state.
Magaziner said he is committed to moving to the district, but wouldn’t say when.
Langevin's decision to retire set off a flurry of campaign announcements for the open seat.