Portsmouth Election Profile: Keith Hamilton

PORTSMOUTH, RI — Keith Hamilton is running for a seat on the Portsmouth Town Council. The 51-year-old Republican has served on the Town Council since 2008.

Hamilton is a sales representative with the Controls Corporation of America and has a degree in psychology from the University of Rhode Island.

What do you believe should be done to contain the coronavirus pandemic, and what would you do to lessen its economic impacts?

RI is doing a good job containing the pandemic. I do believe that the stimulus money earmarked for small businesses needs to be released by the Governor. Plugging a flawed State Budget is not what the money should be used for.

Do you believe systemic racism is a problem in America generally and Rhode Island specifically, and if so, what would you do to combat it?

I don't believe it is "systematic" but racism does exist. We need to hold open honest discussion. Rioting and looting is not the answer.

Should the words "Providence Plantations" be removed from the state's name?

No

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

Conservative values and a complete understanding of how to build and maintain a budget not just from day to day but year to year and beyond.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

Keeping tax increases a low as possible why still maintaining our Town and Services.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

Helping to build and align the budgets over the past 12 years has given me the best insight to help build them in the future. I have worked with 3 Administrations to work in a workable paving budget to help rebuild our Town roads. I also helped lead the negotiations with RIDEM to resolve our 30-year disagreement over installing costly sewer systems.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Huck Little — Always dress for Council and show respect for the office and the position.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I enjoy working for the people of Portsmouth and I hope they are happy with the job I have done. I invite anyone with questions or concerns to reach out to me.