News Summary
Adam Greenman, CEO of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, is challenging incumbent Mayor Don Grebien for the Democratic primary in Pawtucket. With a focus on pressing issues such as the closure of a local hospital and the relocation of the Pawtucket Red Sox, Greenman aims to raise $150,000 for his campaign. As the election approaches, the contrasting visions for the future of the city between Greenman and Grebien highlight ongoing community concerns and development initiatives.
Pawtucket, Rhode Island
Adam Greenman, the president and CEO of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, has announced his candidacy to challenge incumbent Mayor Don Grebien in the upcoming Democratic primary. This election, set for next year, is shaping up to be a contest that may determine the future direction of the city amid ongoing development and community concerns.
Greenman has officially opened a campaign account and launched a campaign website to initiate fundraising efforts. His target is to raise $150,000 to ensure a competitive race against the long-standing mayor. The campaign’s focus is on the significant changes in Pawtucket over the past 14 years, which Greenman argues necessitate new leadership.
Among the key issues highlighted on Greenman’s campaign website are the closure of the local hospital, which provided services when his daughter was born, the relocation of the Pawtucket Red Sox to Worcester, and the potential removal of the iconic Mr. Potato Head statue if Hasbro were to leave the city. He describes Grebien’s tenure as lacking in competing visions for Pawtucket’s future and emphasizes a need for the city to evolve.
Despite his aspirations, Greenman recognizes the difficulties of unseating an incumbent who has maintained a strong connection with constituents and local officials. Grebien has a record of real accomplishments during his time as mayor, including the establishment of the Rhode Island FC soccer stadium and an increase in usage at the train station parking lot.
Political insiders speculate that Grebien may have aspirations for a higher office, possibly considering a bid against Lieutenant Governor Sabina Matos. During his tenure, he has consistently won elections by substantial margins since taking office in 2010. Current projects that Grebien can promote include the ongoing construction of the Tidewater Stadium, the development of the Pawtucket-Central Falls Transit Hub, and various potential housing projects.
Greenman, who has strong community ties as his wife, Erin Greenman, served on the local school committee for a decade, aims to present this election as a choice between the past and the future for Pawtucket. He articulates that simply fostering a friendly atmosphere is insufficient to spur progress for the city.
Political analysts note that, despite being a first-time candidate, Greenman possesses a good chance of successful fundraising due to his background and community connections. His campaign will be closely watched as it unfolds in the lead-up to the primary.
On the other hand, Grebien has consistently highlighted the necessity to tackle key issues pertaining to affordability and the quality of life of Pawtucket residents. As both candidates prepare for the primary, the implications of their policies and visions for the future of Pawtucket hinge on the outcomes of ongoing development initiatives and the concerns voiced by community members.
The upcoming Democratic primary is anticipated to be a significant turning point for Pawtucket as voters consider their options between the established leadership of Mayor Grebien and the emerging perspectives offered by Adam Greenman.
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HERE Resources
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Mayoral Attendance at Gun Safety Fundraising Event
Additional Resources
- Boston Globe: Adam Greenman Primary Challenge
- Providence Journal: Pawtucket Mayor Race
- WPRI: Grebien Wins Pawtucket Mayoral Race
- Turnto10: Election Day Rhode Island
- Providence Journal: Pawtucket Mayor’s Race Results
- Wikipedia: Pawtucket, Rhode Island
- Google Search: Pawtucket Mayor Election
- Google Scholar: Pawtucket Rhode Island
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pawtucket
- Google News: Pawtucket Mayoral Election

Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.