Building Rhode Island Together One Conversation at a Time

By Fred McLin

If you ever run into me at a coffee shop, a barbershop, or just walking down the street, don’t be surprised if I strike up a conversation.

That’s who I am.

I believe the best ideas don’t come from behind a desk — they come from real people, real experiences, and real conversations. And that belief is exactly why I’m running for Lieutenant Governor.

Because Rhode Island doesn’t need more talk — we need solutions built with the people.

Fred McLin opening ribbon cutting for Phred Stuart Smoothies

I See the Challenges — Because I Hear Them Every Day

Everywhere I go, I hear the same things:

Small business owners trying to stay afloat.Working families looking for better opportunities.Veterans trying to transition back into civilian life with support that should already be there.

These aren’t statistics to me — these are conversations I’ve had face-to-face.

Rhode Island has incredible potential, but we’ve also faced real setbacks, especially after the pandemic. Jobs were lost. Businesses closed. And too many people are still trying to catch up.

That’s why my focus is simple:

Grow small businesses. Create real jobs. Support those who served.

Small Business Growth Starts With Listening

I’ve talked to restaurant owners, barbers, creatives, and startup founders — and they all tell me the same thing:

“It shouldn’t be this hard to succeed.”

They’re right.

We need to make it easier for small businesses to access funding, cut through red tape, and actually grow. That means:

• Expanding access to local grants and low-interest funding

• Creating real support systems — not just programs that look good on paper

• Building spaces where entrepreneurs can learn, connect, and scale

  
  

Because when small businesses grow, Rhode Island grows.

Job Creation Isn’t a Policy — It’s a Strategy

Creating jobs isn’t just about numbers — it’s about opportunity.

I’ve had conversations with young people who want careers but don’t see a clear path. I’ve talked to employers who can’t find skilled workers. That tells me one thing:

We need to connect the dots.

That’s why I’m focused on:

• Strengthening partnerships between schools, colleges, and businesses

• Investing in workforce training — especially in tech and emerging industries

• Creating pathways so Rhode Islanders can stay here, work here, and build here

  
  

We already have the talent. We just need to unlock it.

Supporting Veterans Isn’t Optional — It’s Our Responsibility

As a veteran, this one is personal.

I’ve seen firsthand how difficult the transition can be after service. And I’ve also seen how much veterans have to offer — leadership, discipline, and real-world experience.

But too often, they’re left navigating systems that should be working for them.

We need to:

• Improve access to jobs and career placement for veterans

• Expand support services for mental health and transition assistance

• Make Rhode Island a state that truly honors service with action — not just words

Because supporting veterans isn’t charity — it’s accountability.

The Best Ideas Are Already Here — In Our Communities

One thing I’ve learned from talking to people across Rhode Island is this:

The answers are already here.

That’s why I believe in bringing people together — through community forums, workshops, and real conversations — to shape the future of our state.

Not top-down decisions.Not politics as usual.

Just real collaboration.

Let’s Build Rhode Island — Together

This campaign isn’t about me.

It’s about us.

It’s about the small business owner who just needs a fair shot.The worker who wants a better opportunity.The veteran who deserves real support.

And it starts the same way I start most things:

With a conversation.

So when you see me out there — come talk to me.

I’m listening.