PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WPRI) — Nathan Luciano, chairman of the Pawtucket Republican City Committee, announced on Thursday he’s running for mayor this year as an independent.

“I am honored to announce my candidacy for Mayor of Pawtucket running as an
Independent,” Luciano said in his announcement. “Our city stands at a pivotal moment in its history, and I am committed to harnessing the collective potential of our diverse community to
tackle the issues that matter most to our residents.”

“Together, we will build a city that thrives on innovation, inclusivity, and opportunity for all,” he continued.

Luciano told 12 News the policy goals he will highlight on the campaign trail are, “Economic growth, public safety and stronger education and stopping the traffic cameras.”

His announcement also mentioned “community empowerment” as an area of focus.

This will be the first election cycle since 2018 where Democratic Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien has an opponent in a general election. Grebien earned 95.3% in 2020 running unopposed, and 93.1% of the vote in 2022 , also having no opponent.

Grebien is seeking an eighth two-year term as the city’s chief executive, formally kicking off his campaign in March.

Luciano previously ran for elected office in Pawtucket as a Republican. In 2018, he ran for the State Senate District 8 special election, and that same year also ran for R.I. House District 61. Then, in 2020, Luciano ran for the District 2 City Council race.

As for his odds against Grebien, Luciano told 12 News he is “looking forward to a win” in November.

“I believe I will be able to get my message out to the people and gain their trust and support in this election,” Luciano added.

Luciano also pointed to how long Grebien has been mayor, saying his 14 years “is a long time to be in office.”

“The people of Pawtucket need a change. We need some fresh new ideas and policies in place to make Pawtucket thrive, not just survive,” he continued.

Grebien’s campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Luciano’s candidacy.

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