JOHNSTON, R.I. (WPRI) — A statewide police union’s endorsement has become the latest flashpoint in one of Rhode Island’s most competitive General Assembly races this fall.
The state chapter of the International Brotherhood of Police Officers (IBPO) initially endorsed Democratic candidate Kelsey Coletta for R.I. House District 42, located in Johnston and Cranston. She is running to replace state Rep. Edward Cardillo Jr. after defeating him in the September primary.
WATCH: Where They Stand: RI House District 42 candidate Kelsey Coletta
“I am honored to be endorsed by the International Brotherhood of Police Officers,” Coletta wrote in a social media post on Oct. 18 that has since been deleted. “I look forward to working alongside our IBPO officers in Johnston and Cranston to make sure we are meeting the needs of our communities.”
A few days later, 12 News learned that the IBPO had rescinded its endorsement.
WATCH: Where They Stand: RI House District 42 candidate Richard Fascia
“At the same time, radical, progressive extremist Kelsey Coletta had her endorsement by the International Brotherhood of Police Officers revoked,” the literature reads, “after learning about her radical views like supporting legal injection sites for heroin and fentanyl use.”…