News Summary
Rhode Island’s interim Commerce secretary, Jim Bennett, is absent from his role due to undisclosed health issues, raising concerns about the state’s economic leadership amidst ongoing challenges. Governor Dan McKee appointed Bennett to replace Liz Tanner, but his absence has led to speculation about future leadership and possible reinstatement of former secretary Stefan I. Pryor. Meanwhile, the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation faces additional leadership challenges, including a vacancy in its chief marketing officer position, as it seeks to enhance the state’s business competitiveness.
Rhode Island is currently facing uncertainty in its economic leadership as Jim Bennett, recently appointed as the interim Commerce secretary, grapples with undisclosed health issues that have left him absent from his role just weeks into the appointment. Governor Dan McKee appointed Bennett in early July to replace Liz Tanner, who held the position for three years before leaving to lead a nonprofit for the 2026 World Cup.
The absence of a permanent commerce secretary has raised concerns, especially since the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation plays a crucial role in the state’s economic development, competing with neighboring Massachusetts for jobs, businesses, and funding opportunities. Ongoing economic challenges, such as a housing shortage and uncertainty surrounding federal financial support, further exacerbate the situation.
During Bennett’s absence, the operations of the Commerce Corporation continue, but important discussions are underway about the future leadership of the agency. During a recent board meeting, Governor McKee chaired the session alongside Antonio Afonso Jr., a staff member, though Bennett’s absence was notably not addressed. This has led to speculation regarding whether Bennett will transition from his interim role to become the permanent secretary, or if the governor is contemplating reinstating former secretary Stefan I. Pryor.
Pryor, who previously served from 2015 to 2022, left amid criticism concerning his management of the housing department. He was appointed as the state’s housing secretary in February 2023, advocating for a $120 million housing bond. However, the governor has remained tight-lipped about personnel changes involving Pryor and Bennett, indicating that updates may come soon.
Moreover, the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation is currently dealing with a vacancy in its chief marketing officer position following the departure of Anika Kimble-Huntley. This leaves the agency with additional leadership challenges as it seeks to bolster the state’s competitive edge in attracting businesses.
Board member Karl Wadensten has expressed hopes that Bennett and Pryor could collaborate effectively if the latter is reinstated. Wadensten urged for decisive action from the Commerce Corporation in response to prevailing competitive pressures, underscoring the urgency of bold initiatives during this leadership transition.
Bennett brings a wealth of experience to his role, having previously served as Providence’s director of economic development and as the executive vice president of Prospect Medical Holdings. His appointment as president and COO of the Rhode Island Commerce in April 2024 came after he was brought out of retirement by Governor McKee. Notably, Bennett has successfully attracted companies like Organogenesis Holdings Inc. to Rhode Island, securing nearly $20 million in tax incentives for the establishment of its new facility.
As Bennett’s health status remains unclear and economic pressures continue to mount, it is imperative for the McKee administration to expedite the decision-making process around the leadership of the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation. The state is at a critical juncture, with ongoing discussions highlighting the need for strong and effective leadership to drive economic recovery and growth amidst challenging circumstances.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Boston Globe: Rhode Island Commerce Leadership in Limbo
- GoLocalProv: RI Commerce and Cox Resolve Conflict Over Federal Grant
- Providence Journal: McKee Taps Jim Bennett as RI’s New Interim Commerce Secretary
- WPRI: RI Commerce Secretary Steps Down to Lead Nonprofit
- Wikipedia: Rhode Island
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.
