Click here for a brief biography and link to encyclopedia article on Frank T. Caprio

Making government work for people is how Frank T. Caprio sees his role as an elected public servant. He has distinguished himself as an independent leader in state government over the past fifteen years. He credits his outspoken advocacy for the constitutional amendment commonly referred to as Separation of Powers as a very important event in his public service career. Against the wishes of Rhode Island legislative leaders, Frank T. Caprio, as a State Senator, called for passage of the stalled Separation of Powers amendment in 2002. As a result of his vocal support for the amendment, the then Senate leadership sought to punish Caprio by removing him from his post as Chair of the powerful Senate Finance Committee in August of 2002.

During the next year, both the House Speaker and Senate President, individuals who fought against the people of Rhode Island and Caprio on the Separation of Powers amendment, had their political careers end abruptly. The amendment passed the legislature and went on the state ballot in 2004. Rhode Islanders made it law with almost 80% approval. Separation of Powers changed how Rhode Island government functions, making it more like the federal and most other state governments .

Being removed from a leadership post in 2002 because of his public stand against state house insiders is an example of the political courage Caprio has exhibited during his public service career. As the next Rhode Island General Treasurer, Caprio wants to put Rhode Island’s interests ahead of any special interest. He does not want wasteful government spending. He wants government to be open, accountable, and efficient.