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State House, Room 38
Providence, RI 02903
Phone: (401) 222-3983
Fax: (401) 222-1404
TTY: 711

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Rhode Island General Officer

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee
Governor
INDEPENDENT
Biographical
  • Date of Birth: 03/26/1953
  • Spouse: Stephanie Danforth Chafee
  • Children: Louisa, Caleb and Thea
General Background
  • High School: Phillips Academy Andover
  • College: Brown University, B.A., 1975
  • Previous Occupations: Blacksmith; Distinguished Visiting Fellow - Brown University's Watson Inst. for International Studies
Major Responsibilities
As chief executive, the Governor is responsible for public health, environmental management, human services, business regulation, workforce development and training, transportation, homeland security, emergency management, and law enforcement. The Governor also serves as the captain general and commander in chief of the military and naval forces of Rhode Island. The Rhode Island Constitution authorizes and requires the Governor to prepare and present to the General Assembly an annual, consolidated operating and capital improvement state budget. The Governor also has broad constitutional appointment power for judges, state officers and members of executive boards and commissions. He can exercise legislative veto and general pardon authority. The Governor also serves as Chair of the Board of the Economic Development Corporation.
Contact Information
Public Service Information
  • Public Offices and Appointments: Warwick City Council (1986-1990); Mayor of the City of Warwick (1992-1999); U.S. Senator (1999-2006)
Description
The chief executive power of this state is vested in the Governor. The Governor has the constitutional responsibility and authority to ensure that the laws of Rhode Island are faithfully executed.
Key Staff
Chief of Staff
George A. Zainyeh
Deputy Chief of Staff
Jamia McDonald
Executive Counsel
Claire Richards
Director of Communications
Christine Hunsinger
Legislative Director
Steve Kavanagh
more staff . . .