Ocean State Today

Today, Governor McKee addressed the public in a news conference regarding reports on the ILO Group investigation. He granted Common Cause Rhode Island permission to file a complaint with the Rhode Island Ethics Commission. In response, John Marion, Executive Director of Common Cause Rhode Island, issued a statement.

Marion asserted that "Common Cause Rhode Island doesn’t need anyone’s permission to hold power accountable." The organization is currently reviewing materials from the State Police and Attorney General and will soon decide whether to proceed with an ethics complaint.

Regardless of their decision, Marion emphasized the necessity for legislative action: "Whether or not Common Cause Rhode Island files an ethics complaint, it’s clear that the General Assembly needs to pass, and the governor needs to sign, legislation that prevents political interference with the bidding process."

Additionally, Marion highlighted ongoing efforts to advance campaign finance legislation initially introduced in 2024. This proposed law aims to tighten limits on in-kind contributions. "We’re working to beef up that legislation for the 2025 session," he stated.

Marion also pointed out concerns about Governor McKee's hiring practices: "Finally, we need to look at how Governor McKee hired, but seemingly has not yet paid, the state’s most powerful lobbyist...to be his personal attorney."