The Dan Yorke Show

Democratic Lt. Gov. candidate Xay Khamsyvoravong joins the show to react to John Loughlin’s Inspector General proposal. We discuss the necessity of independent oversight in Rhode Island and whether this plan offers a real solution for government accountability. Key Discussion Points Xay’s Reaction: The candidate’s direct response to Loughlin’s proposal. Oversight Mechanics: Breaking down how an independent IG would function within the state's current structure. The Policy Gap: Where Xay agrees with the need for transparency and where his vision for the office differs. Campaign Impact: How the push for an IG is shaping the race for Lt. Governor. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Revision: Hopkins breaks down his revised budget which adheres to the 4% state tax cap following the Council's pushback. Senior Center Impact: Explains the "painful" decision to suspend operations at the Cranston Senior Center to meet the lower tax levy. Blame & Accountability: Addresses the $10M shortfall, citing mismanagement by the former finance director and the need for "shared responsibility" between the city and schools. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Rejection: Wall discusses the City Council's unanimous rejection of the Mayor's initial 7.4% tax hike, calling it a violation of the city charter. Alternative Strategy: Argues that the city must prioritize spending cuts and internal belt-tightening over significant tax increases. Senior Center Advocacy: Expresses concern over using essential services like the Senior Center as leverage in budget negotiations. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As former House Speaker Joe Shekarchi officially steps down to apply for a seat on the Rhode Island Supreme Court, a major legal hurdle has emerged. Michael Yelnosky, professor and former dean at Roger Williams University School of Law, joins the program to discuss the formal ethics complaint he filed this week. We dive into the "revolving door" provision of the state’s Code of Ethics, which generally bars elected officials from seeking state employment for one year after leaving office. Is the Supreme Court exempt as a constitutional office, or is this a violation of public trust? Key Discussion Points The Complaint: Why Yelnosky filed the challenge the moment Shekarchi delivered his farewell speech. The "Revolving Door": Understanding the one-year waiting period for state legislators. Precedent vs. Policy: Analyzing the 2020 Erin Lynch Prata case and how it shapes the current debate. Next Steps: What to expect from the Rhode Island Ethics Commission during their preliminary review in June. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Proposal: Mayor Ken Hopkins proposed a 7.44% tax levy increase for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. The "Why": * Budget Deficit: The city is facing a looming $10 million deficit. Financial Recovery: Hopkins argues the hike is essential to stabilize city operations and address long-standing financial "missteps." The Political Clash: * The Cranston City Council unanimously rejected the proposal in late April 2026, calling the 7.4% hike "insulting." Like North Providence, this increase would require a 4/5ths vote from the council or state legislative intervention to bypass the 4% cap. Local Impact: For the average single-family homeowner, the proposal would mean a roughly $500 to $700 increase in annual property taxes. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Proposal: Mayor Charles Lombardi has proposed a 7% tax increase, significantly exceeding Rhode Island’s state-mandated 4% municipal tax cap. The "Why": * New Schools: The primary driver is an $8.5 million debt service payment following a voter-approved $125 million bond for all-new elementary schools. Hospital Revenue Loss: A $3.3 million shortfall caused by the sale and status change of Fatima Hospital. The "Cap" Hurdle: Because the increase is 7%, the Town Council must seek special authorization from the Rhode Island General Assembly to override the 4% limit. Mayor’s Defense: Lombardi highlights that the town had no tax increases for 10 of the last 12 years and frames this as a necessary cost for infrastructure the public voted for. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guest: Joe Paolino Jr., Former Providence Mayor & Managing Partner of Paolino PropertiesTopic: The Future of Providence Place Mall and Rhode Island’s Political Landscape Executive SummaryDan Yorke welcomes former Mayor Joe Paolino Jr. to the WPRO studios for a deep dive into the blockbuster $133 million acquisition of the Providence Place Mall. Paolino discusses his vision for transforming the struggling landmark, his thoughts on the current housing crisis, and how the "political ecosystem" in Rhode Island is shifting ahead of the next election cycle. Key Discussion Points1. The Providence Place Mall Acquisition The Full Circle Moment: Paolino reflects on his role in the mall’s original development in the 90s and why he felt compelled to step in now. The Bid Process: Insight into why his group’s $133 million bid was selected by the court-appointed receiver over higher cash offers from out-of-state firms. A New Vision: * The "long shot" goal of bringing a supermarket (possibly Costco or Wegmans) to downtown. Focusing on safety and security to restore consumer confidence. Addressing the departure of major anchors like Macy's and the strategy for new mixed-use elements. 2. Housing Policy & Development Rent Stabilization: Paolino shares his perspective on recent Providence rent control debates and why he believes production, not regulation, is the answer. Urban Revitalization: How the mall’s "repositioning" fits into the broader need for downtown housing and infrastructure. 3. The Changing Political Ecosystem Local Leadership: Assessing Mayor Brett Smiley’s administration and the city's current trajectory. The Business Climate: Why Paolino believes "local skin in the game" is necessary to combat the influence of national investment firms that don't understand the Rhode Island market. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Councilor Justin Roias (Ward 4) shares insights into the legislative process behind the Providence Rent Stabilization Act. As a key voice in the council discussions, Roais touches on the months of public testimony and the amendments intended to balance tenant protection with landlord sustainability.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

State Representative and mayoral challenger David Morales joins the program to react to the Mayor’s veto. Morales argues that the veto prioritizes corporate landlords over the working families of Providence and calls for a council override.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Providence Mayor Brett Smiley discusses his decision to veto the City Council’s proposed rent stabilization ordinance. Following a narrow 9-6 council vote, the Mayor outlines his concerns regarding the long-term financial impact on the city’s tax base and the potential for administrative overreach.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BRIAN WYNNE, PRESIDENT, OPINION DIAGNOSTICS, JOINS THE SHOW TO DISCUSS THE METHODOLOGY BEHIND HIS RECENT RI GUBERNATORIAL POLL THAT SHOWS THE RACE TO BE COMPETATIVE BETWEEN GOVERNOR MCKEE, HELENA FOULKES AND KEN BLOCK.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael J. Yelnosky became a member of the founding faculty at Roger Williams University School of Law in 1993. He served as associate dean for academic affairs from 2004 to 2008, and as the fifth dean of RWU Law from 2014 to 2020.  He has spent thirty years working to help establish and grow Rhode Island’s only law school.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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United States Senator Sheldon Whitehouse joins Dan Yorke to discuss the latest on the War in Iran.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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WPRO's Kevin McNamara joins Yorke to discuss Providence College's decision to fire Men's Head Basketball Coach Kim English.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WPRO's K Mc joins the showSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Congressman Gabe Amo joins the show to offer reaction to the United States' incursion into IranSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Congressman Seth Magaziner joins the show to offer reaction to the United States' incursion into IranSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newport Councilor and former mayor "Xay" Khamsyvoravong joins the show to discuss his announcement that he is entering the Democrat primary for Lt. Governor.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Governor Dan McKee joins the show to provide the latest on clean up efforts across the state after yesterday's historic stormSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Congressman Gabe Amo joins the show to give a preview ahead of tonight's State of the Union Address from President TrumpSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 RI Energy President Gregg Cornett joins the show to provide an updateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Providence Police Chief Col. Oscar Perez provides the latest information on the Blizzard of 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Governor Dan McKee provides the latest information on the Blizzard of 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

RIEMA Director Marc Papas provides the latest on the Blizzard of 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Education Commissioner Angelica Infante-Green joins the show to discuss mental health resources that are available.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Richard LeClerc, Director, RI RI Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities & Hospitals joins the show in the wake of the Pawtucket tragedy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

RIIL hockey official Eric calls into The Dan Yorke ShowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

State Representative and Providence mayoral candidate David Morales is arguing that his primary opponent, mayor Brett Smiley, has overseen an insufficient snow cleanup in the city following this past weekend's storm. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WPRO's Kevin McNamara joins the show to discuss Bill Belichick not receiving first ballot induction to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Patrick Crowley - President, Rhode Island AFL-CIO joins the show to expand on his organization's statement decrying ICE's conduct in Minneapolis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Rhode Island State Police Colonel Steve O'Donnell joins the show to offer additional reaction.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Minnesota ICE Shooting: Former RI State Police Colonel Steve O'Donnell joins the show to offer analysis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Superintendent of the RI State Police Col. Steve O'Donnell joins the show to talk about the latest developments into the search for the person of interest in the shooting at Brown University See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former State Police Col. Steve O'Donnell joins the show to talk with Dan about the latest details into the Brown University Mass Shooting See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Amy Nunn, CEO, Rhode Island Public Health Institute, joins the show to offer analysis on the recent CDC changes to vaccine recommendations. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Newport Buzz's Christian Winthrop joins the show to discuss the latest on arrests related to assaults on a special needs student by members of the Rogers High School football team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Director of Rhode Island Office Veteran's Services Kasim Yarn joins Bill Bartholomew. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Senator Sheldon Whitehouse joins the show to discuss the latest developments in the government shutdown. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cortney Nicolato, President and CEO, United Way of Rhode Island - who are a plaintiff in the legal challenge to the Trump administration's SNAP suspension - joins the show to offer perspective on the travel and impact of the case, See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wendy Joering, Executive Director, The Sandra Bornstein Holocaust Education Center, joins the show for an in-studio reaction. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

HealthSource RI Director Lindsay Lang offers the latest on potential premium increases and other critical updates, See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tim McCandless, Scout Executive/CEO, Narragansett Council, joins the show to discuss "Scouting For Food", the largest food drive in the state of Rhode Island.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wendy Joering, Executive Director, Sandra Bornstein Holocaust Education Center, joins the show to offer her latest perspective on the ongoing alleged antisemitic hazing incident at Smithfield High School See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island president Adam Greenman offers his latest thoughts on the ongoing saga of alleged antisemitic hazing by five Smithfield High School football players - and the ensuing reinstatement of the players following their initial season-long suspension. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vibco founder Karl Wadensten joins the show to discuss his Op-ed in today's Providence Business News, When the SNAP supply chain breaks, Rhode Islanders must become the human governmentSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Caller Jen from Smithfield, who has a senior on the High School football team, calls in to give her perspective on the hazing incident See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Smithfield School Committee Chairman Richard Iannetelli joins the show to talk about the high school football hazing incident See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Town Councilor Tom Winfield joins the show to talk about the Smithfield High School Football hazing incident See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.