Providence Mayor Brett Smiley has lost the Democratic primary race, according to projections by NBC News. Rhode Island state Representative David Morales is expected to win the election, marking a significant shift in local politics. Morales, who has the support of prominent figures like Senator Bernie Sanders and former Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza, campaigned on a progressive platform. His proposals included limiting rent increases, expanding affordable housing options, and raising taxes on corporations and polluters to fund public services. Morales criticized Smiley for not adequately addressing current challenges facing the city. During a mayoral debate, Morales asked voters if they felt better off now than when Smiley first took office. He emphasized that he is running for mayor because he believes government can play a stronger role in improving people's lives and is building a movement for a more inclusive Providence. Morales also highlighted his commitment to maintaining public safety, rejecting claims that he supports defunding the police. Smiley, who had previously worked in the administration of former Mayor Jorge Elorza, was seeking a second term after winning the mayoral election in 2022. He pointed to achievements such as expanding a universal pre-K program and his opposition to former President Donald Trump's policies on immigration. Smiley criticized Morales for being part of a broader national movement and accused him of not being focused on solving real problems for Providence residents. He also took issue with Morales' past support for reallocating police funding, suggesting Morales was not tough on crime. Morales responded by accusing Smiley of relying on outdated statements and tweets from over five years ago. He reiterated that as the next mayor, he would not support defunding the police, a stance he has consistently maintained. The outcome in Providence reflects a broader trend of progressive candidates gaining traction in local, state, and federal elections across the United States. Similar victories have been recorded in cities such as New York City, Washington, D.C., and states like Colorado, Michigan, and even Florida, where candidates aligned with the democratic socialist movement have seen increasing support.