Lou Raptakis Re-Captures State Senate Seat in Rhode Island

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Former Rhode Island State Senator Leonidas “Lou” Raptakis, who served in the Rhode Island General Assembly for sixteen years, won re-election to the State Senate, earning an impressive victory in a campaign that focused on his past record of accomplishment and reputation for being a watchdog for the public interest in the State House. Raptakis earned 7,033 votes to 4,333 for his incumbent opponent, Glenn Shibley.

Raptakis served in the Rhode Island Senate until 2010, when he left to run his first state-wide race for Secretary of State. While he lost a primary election that year, he continued to play an active role in state politics, leading a successful effort to oppose an unpopular meals tax hike which would have done further damage to restaurants in the state which were already struggling in a tough economy. While his Senate district changed somewhat as a result of a re-districting process which took place earlier in the year, about 80% of the new Senate District 33 was composed of areas Raptakis had represented in the past.

“I am grateful to the voters for giving me the opportunity to return to the State Senate and serve as their voice in the State House,” said Raptakis. “At the same time, I’m grateful for the strong support I received from so many friends in the Greek community and I look forward to having the opportunity to bring attention to Hellenic issues in the legislature and by working with Congressional leaders in Washington, DC.”

Raptakis pointed to a range of issues where he has worked to promote strong American support for issues of concern to Greece and Cyprus, including: promoting a resolution to end the division of Cyprus; recognizing the Hellenic roots of Macedonia; pushing for Greece’s inclusion in the visa waiver program; introducing a Pontian Genocide resolution; arranging the donation of Hellas Liberty ship to Greece for use as a floating maritime museum.

“Whether it’s fighting for the rights of local property taxpayers or calling attention to issues of concern to the Hellenic community, I know how to build support for legislative initiatives and produce meaningful results,” said Raptakis. “I look forward to returning to the State Senate and continuing to get things done for our communities.”

©2012 NEOCORP MEDIA





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