Governor Dan McKee Under Fire for Lack of Support for Small Businesses
In a recent editorial, Governor Dan McKee of Rhode Island is facing criticism for his lack of support for small businesses impacted by the mismanagement of inspections and repairs to the Washington Bridge. Despite claiming to be a champion of small businesses, McKee has yet to provide any funding to help those struggling in the wake of the bridge debacle.
Instead of offering grants to small businesses, McKee has directed $27 million towards a privately owned soccer stadium owned by California businessman Brett Johnson. The funding scheme for the stadium is raising concerns, as it will ultimately cost Rhode Island taxpayers nearly $140 million over the next 30 years.
This shift in priorities has raised eyebrows, especially considering McKee’s previous criticism of former Governor Gina Raimondo for not providing enough support to small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. McKee had called out Raimondo for not acting quickly enough to establish loan and grant programs to help struggling businesses stay afloat.
Now, as McKee focuses on big projects and press conferences, small businesses are left in the lurch. The editorial suggests that McKee’s legacy may be defined by his support for large projects at the expense of small businesses in Riverside and beyond.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how McKee will address the concerns raised by the editorial and whether he will take steps to support Rhode Island’s small businesses in the future.