Showdown Over the High Court: Shekarchi’s Vow to Fight Ethics Investigation in Court

Showdown Over the High Court: Shekarchi’s Vow to Fight Ethics Investigation in Court

The high-stakes legal battle over Rhode Island’s open Supreme Court seat has reached a fever pitch. Following a grueling three-hour hearing, the Rhode Island Ethics Commission voted 6–1 to reject former House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi’s motion to dismiss the ethics complaint against him. The complaint, filed by Roger Williams University Law Professor and former Dean Michael Yelnosky, alleges that Shekarchi’s rapid jump from the Speaker’s rostrum to a lifetime appointment on the state’s highest court is a flagrant violation of Rhode Island’s "revolving door" law. With the Commission pushing forward with its formal investigation, Shekarchi’s legal team is now signaling a move to the court system to halt the process. In this episode, we sit down with the man who launched the complaint, Michael Yelnosky, to unpack the Commission's landmark vote, the executive director's blistering 27-page objection, and what happens next now that Shekarchi is taking the battle to court. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

To Total or To Repair? The Battle Over Rhode Island’s Auto Insurance Rates.

As Rhode Island drivers already face some of the highest car insurance and repair costs in the nation, a contentious piece of legislation sits on Governor Dan McKee’s desk. In this episode, we sit down with insurance industry expert Christopher S. Stark to break down House Bill 7866 and Senate Bill 3115. This legislation proposes raising the state’s vehicle total-loss threshold from 80% to 85%. While proponents frame it as a win for consumer choice and local auto body shops, Stark warns it could backfire drastically—leading to skyrocketing premiums, longer repair delays, and potential safety risks on the road. We dive deep into the mechanics of the Unfair Claims Settlement Practices Act, why Rhode Island is a unique battleground for auto repair laws, and what Governor McKee's final decision will mean for your wallet. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Reaction To Gov McKee Signing Charter School Moratorium: Lauren Matlach Deputy Director, RI League of Charter Public Schools

Lauren Matlach Deputy Director, RI League of Charter Public Schools joins the show to react to Governor Dan McKee's decision to sign a charter school pause. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Woonsocket Mayor Chris Beauchamp on Endorsing Governor Dan McKee

Woonsocket mayor Chris Beauchamp joins the show to discuss why he is endorsing Governor Dan McKee. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Providence Councilor Juan Pichardo on Endorsing Governor McKee

Providence City Councilor Juan Pichardo discusses joining the municipal coalition supporting Governor McKee, emphasizing the focus on defending health care, food assistance, and critical social services for Rhode Island’s capital city. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.