CUMBERLAND – Liam Kane, an 18-year-old college freshman, has won his write-in campaign for Cumberland Fire Committee District 2, beating out a 10-year incumbent who was also pursuing the seat as a write-in.
Kane, a town resident and finance major at Stonehill College, previously said he had seen an opportunity to serve the community where he has lived, and put his finance studies to work for taxpayers.
In the final vote tally, which took two days beyond the election, Kane finished with 302 votes, according to the Rhode Island Board of Elections, nearly tripling the 111 votes received by Paul Santoro.
Santoro had declined to file to run for re-election, leaving that part of the ballot with no names on it, but then announced his write-in bid after Kane did.
In March 2021, the Rhode Island Governor’s Office recognized R. David Cruise as the youngest elected official in state history, noting that Cruise was elected to the Cumberland Town Council in 1976 at the age of 19. Fifty years later, Kane’s election at 18 could surpass that milestone, with both men beginning their elected public service in Cumberland.
“I’m incredibly grateful to the residents of District 2 who took the time to write my name on their ballots and put their trust in me,” said Kane in a statement. “When I entered this race, I wanted to show that young people don’t have to wait to get involved in their communities or make a difference. I’m excited for the opportunity to serve the town I’ve called home my entire life.”
Kane had said his priorities include working with town and fire officials to explore combining the fire tax bill with the town’s annual tax bill, identifying efficiencies and responsible budget savings, and ensuring firefighters have the resources they need to protect the community.
“Residents deserve careful stewardship of their tax dollars and dependable public safety services,” he said upon entering his name for consideration. “I want to ask thoughtful questions, look for practical savings, and support the firefighters who keep Cumberland safe.”
A 2026 graduate of La Salle Academy, Kane is studying finance at Stonehill College in Easton, Mass. He has several years of experience in state government, having served as a page for the Rhode Island Senate since 2023. He says his work at the Statehouse has provided him firsthand exposure to the legislative process, public policy, and the responsibilities of public service.
Throughout his campaign, Kane emphasized responsible financial oversight, identifying operational efficiencies, supporting Cumberland’s firefighters, and ensuring residents receive quality fire and emergency services while maintaining fiscal accountability.
“I have tremendous respect for the firefighters who serve our community and for everyone who has dedicated their time to the Fire Committee,” he said. “I look forward to listening, learning, asking thoughtful questions, and working collaboratively to make sure we’re providing the best possible service to Cumberland residents while being responsible with taxpayer dollars.”
Kane also expressed his appreciation for his opponent, Paul Santoro, recognizing his decade of service to the community.
“I want to thank Paul Santoro for his 10 years of service to the Cumberland Fire Committee and our community,” he said. “Public service requires a commitment of time and energy, and I appreciate his willingness to serve our town for so many years. I wish him and his family nothing but the best.”
Kane also acknowledged the significance of his victory and the opportunity it presents for young people interested in public service.
“I hope my campaign encourages other young people to get involved in their communities,” he said. “Whether it’s volunteering, attending a local meeting, or running for office, you don’t have to wait until you’re older to have a voice or make a difference.”
Kane thanked his family, friends, neighbors, and supporters for helping organize a grassroots campaign in a race where voters had to take the additional step of writing in his full name.
“This community has given me so much, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to give something back,” he said. “I’m looking forward to getting to work.”
Kane will assume his responsibilities on the Cumberland Fire Committee following his swearing-in.
Kane’s father is Tom Kane, head of the town’s Democratic Town Committee, who posted how proud he is of his son for his accomplishment.
The Cumberland Fire District runs as its own entity outside of town government, with its own tax bill and own governance. It was previously made up of multiple districts before a long-planned but controversial merger.
