SMITHFIELD – Suzy Alba, Democratic candidate for state representative in House District 53, announced that she has visited more than 4,800 homes across Smithfield and Glocester since beginning her campaign.
For Alba, the number matters less than what she has heard along the way, she said in a release. Residents have talked with her about rising electric bills, grocery prices, taxes, public schools, supporting aging parents and college age children who can’t afford housing, and the frustration of feeling that their government is not responsive.
“There is no substitute for standing on someone’s front step, looking them in the eye, and asking what’s on their minds.” Alba said. “Most people
tell me what their electric bill was last month, whether their child is getting what they need at school, if their college grad can find a job or afford a home, or whether their parents can afford to stay in the home they worked for due to rising costs of living and healthcare.”
Alba represented Smithfield on the Town Council for 10 years, including two terms as council president. She said staying closely connected with her neighbors was central to how she served then, and will remain a priority representing the district when elected to the general assembly.
Alba said there is a common thread.
“People want a representative who is present, accessible, and willing to do the hard work after the conversation ends,” she said. ““They don’t expect us to agree on everything, but they do expect me to listen, and work hard to help strengthen our communities at the local and state level. That is a fair expectation.”
Alba said her priorities include stronger public schools, relief from rising household costs, support for seniors who want to age in place, access to affordable higher education, jobs and workforce development, supporting our small businesses, and protection of the open spaces that help define Smithfield and Glocester.
The campaign will continue door-to-door outreach through Election Day and will hold additional coffee conversations and roundtble discussions where residents can speak directly with Alba in an informal setting.
“4,800 doors is a milestone I am proud of, but it is not a finish line,” Alba said. “There are more neighbors to talk with and more neighborhoods to visit over these next few months. I intend to keep showing up now, and once elected.”
