Rhode Island state Rep-elect Laufton Ascencao (D-Bristol), who acknowledges deceiving Warren Democrats during the fall campaign, announced Wednesday he will not take the legislative seat he won in November.
“In the last few days, as I have taken time to really reflect on the actions that I deeply regret, I have realized that my personal priorities are no longer what they should be,” Ascencao said in a statement. “Viewing the inability to get a political mailer sent in time as a personal failing is a pretty silly way to see the world. Trying to cover it up was a mistake so unnecessary that it’s clear to me that my judgement has become skewed.”
Ascencao continued: “Taking the time in recent days to be with the people I love and who love me has only made that clearer. That’s why I’ve decided to not assume my seat as State Representative.”
Ascencao came under criticism from the Warren Democratic Town Committee after he failed to follow through on a mailer he promised to send in support of Warren Town Council candidates. He then used a fake invoice and a photo of a check to maintain a pretense that he had sent the mailer.
After it came to light, Ascencao’s behavior led the committee’s chairman to contact the state Board of Elections. On Thursday, one group, the Rhode Island Coalition Against Gun Violence, called on Ascencao to step down, while another, the so-called Reform Caucus, said he would no longer be a part of that group. One progressive group, RI Working Families, had expressed disappointment in Ascencao, but stood by him.
Ascencao had won a decisive victory for a seat being vacated by Rep. Ken Marshall (D-Bristol).
Ascencao’s decision to not take his seat when other reps-elect are inaugurated on January first sets the stage for a special election. State law calls for that to take place between the next 70 and 90 days from when the intended lawmaker can not take his or her seat.
“I apologize to the voters who gave me their support,” Ascencao said. “I let you down and I will continue to try to make amends even though I am not assuming the position. I hope to live up to the faith you placed in me by continuing to try to make a difference.”
“My mistakes were my own and does not reflect the passion and commitment of the community members, activists, and leaders I have been proud to work alongside for years,” he added. “I have complete faith in the future of our state because I know they are involved.”
