Issues

Campaign Platform

Sam Wilcox is dedicated to making District 34 a place where affordability, transparency, and environmental health thrive for all residents.

Affordability
1. Rising costs for housing, energy, and groceries are squeezing families. Many struggle to afford basic needs as prices outpace wages. Rhode Island needs policies that lower utility and housing costs, expand affordable options, and support families facing inflation. Everyone deserves the chance to live comfortably without financial strain.

Education
1. Curriculum: We need to continue to be sure we have consistent, high-quality standards statewide with clear learning goals that ensure every student has access to the same strong foundation. By aligning curriculum and expectations, we can close achievement gaps, prepare our kids for college and careers, and give families confidence that their schools are delivering a world-class education.
2. Reliable State School Funding: Predictable state funding will help stabilize property taxes year after year just to keep schools running. Let’s give every community the resources it needs to provide a quality education so every child has the chance to succeed.

Small Business Growth and Beneficial Business Development
1. Economic Development and Job Opportunities for Rural Communities: Support local agriculture and trades to encourage new industries that fit our communities. Strong rural economies mean stronger schools, better local services, and a more balanced Rhode Island.
2. Supporting development in Providence to support the overall state budget: Rhode Island’s capital and other cities are an economic engine for the entire state. Supporting smart development in Providence and other cities will strengthen the overall state budget and reduce the need for higher taxes for all Rhode Islanders.

Healthcare
1. Affordable, Accessible Care: Lower prescription drug costs, support local providers, and make healthcare more affordable, more accessible, and more responsive to the needs of every family.
2. Mental Health Resources: By strengthening prevention, improving access, and reducing stigma, we can build a healthier, more resilient community where no one is left behind.

Protect Our Environment
1. Preserve What Makes Rhode Island Special: Safeguard clean water, farmland, and open spaces for future generations.
2. Solar: Renewable energy is important, but it must be done responsibly. I oppose large-scale solar projects that require clear-cutting forests and destroying open space. Rhode Island should pursue renewable energy in ways that protect our environment, not harm it.

Transparent and Accountable Government
1. Colleagues: Work with all levels of government, including the 2 Regional School Committees, 5 Town Councils, and the 5 State Representatives that encompass District 34.
2. Constituents: Responsive to constituents of all political parties and backgrounds. Find common ground with all to ensure our district is fully represented.
3. Reliable and Credible: provide accurate and timely information and notices that affect our shared community.

Invest Tax Dollars Wisely
1. Essential Services: Focus investing in essential services like public safety, education, and infrastructure.
2. Flooding & Storm Resilience: Invest in infrastructure that protects homes, roads, farms, and natural resources from climate-related damage.
3. Roads & Bridges: Prioritize the maintenance and repair of critical infrastructure to ensure safe travel for residents, school buses, and emergency vehicles.
4. Office of the Inspector General: Provide oversight, accountability, and transparency. This office would investigate waste, fraud, and abuse, ensuring tax dollars are invested responsibly.