How is RI-1 shaping up? I know Cicilline has had some strong challengers, although I'm not sure why he's had so much trouble in the past.
Wasn't that because Providence became broke in the aftermath of his time as mayor?
^This. Though I think the heavy involvement of Republicans in this race last election was fools gold for them. If it were a wave election during a midterm Cicilline could have been narrowly defeated. In a presidential year, with Rhode Islanders willing to vote for anything with D next to their name it wasn't going to happen. Unless another major scandal breaks out, Cicilline is holding onto this seat as long as he wants.
I for one enjoying having a sassy gay man as my representative. Our previous representative was Patrick Kennedy who felt entitled to the seat. Cicilline is at every local event you can imagine and is always interacting with his constituents. I've met him a few times.