Background
Samantha Wilcox (Democratic Party) is running for election to the Rhode Island State Senate to represent District 34. She is on the ballot in the general election on November 3, 2026. She advanced from the Democratic primary on September 9, 2026.
In their own words
Who are you? Tell us about yourself.
I am a dedicated local leader committed to serving my community and currently serve as President of the Richmond Town Council. My experience in local government has prepared me to be an effective advocate for our rural communities in the Rhode Island Senate.
I moved to the district more than 10 years ago, first to Exeter and now Richmond. Since being elected to the Town Council in 2022, I have focused on protecting our environment, spending tax dollars wisely, supporting responsible economic development, and improving transparency and civic engagement.
I'm running for Senate because our rural communities deserve a strong voice at the State House. I will fight for affordability, accountable government, environmental protection, and policies that preserve the rural character that makes our district special.
At a time when our country feels deeply divided, I believe leadership means listening, finding common ground, and treating everyone with respect. As Council President, I've worked successfully with a Democratic majority by leading with civility and focusing on results.
I've championed improvements to senior and 100% disabled tax exemptions, supported local businesses, invested in schools, parks, and playgrounds, protected our aquifers, and promoted efficient, transparent government.
As your senator, I'll lead with integrity, ask the tough questions, make the difficult decisions, and work every day to earn your trust and deliver results for District 34.
Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?
Every child deserves access to a high-quality education, regardless of where they live. I support consistent statewide academic standards and clear learning goals that prepare students for college, careers, and lifelong success while giving families confidence in their local schools. I will also fight for reliable, predictable state education funding that helps communities provide excellent schools without placing an ever-increasing burden on local property taxpayers.I will work to preserve the clean water, farmland, forests, and open spaces that make Rhode Island a special place to live. While I support renewable energy, it must be developed responsibly. I oppose large-scale solar projects that require clear-cutting forests or permanently destroying valuable open space. We can expand clean energy while protecting our natural resources by prioritizing responsible siting, innovation, and balanced policies that preserve our environment for future generations.I will be an accessible, responsive, and accountable State Senator who works collaboratively with local, regional, and state leaders to deliver results for District 34. I will listen to constituents of every political party and background, seek common ground, and ensure every community in our district has a voice at the State House. I am committed to providing accurate, timely information about issues and decisions that affect our shared community, so residents always know where I stand and how I am representing them.
What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?
I am most passionate about protecting Rhode Island's environment, making our state more affordable, strengthening public education, and restoring trust in government. I believe we can preserve our forests, farmland, clean water, and rural character while pursuing responsible economic growth and renewable energy. I'm committed to reliable school funding, high academic standards, and supporting small businesses that strengthen our local economy. Above all, I believe the government should be transparent, accountable, and responsive, with every tax dollar invested wisely to improve the lives of Rhode Islanders.
On the 2026 ballot
Links
Compiled from the candidate’s published profile as of September 30, 2026.
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