The primary race in the 10th congressional district to fill the seat left vacant by the late Donald Payne Sr. is heating up. Newark Councilman Ronald C. Rice announced his intention to run prior to Payne’s death because he wanted to propose a new vision. Rice sat down with NJ Today Managing Editor Mike Schneider to discuss his campaign.
While Rice said he wasn’t completely comfortable running against the sitting congressman, he wanted to propose new ideas. “We can never fill his [Payne’s] shoes, but we have an obligation to build upon his foundation,” Rice said. “And I believe a 21st century congressional district has to have a 21st century vision and I believe my vision is that way.”
Rice said he has specific ideas about how to create new jobs and a new economy with alternative energy jobs. He said that would be the focus of his efforts in Washington.
When asked how he would fund changes, he said, “I think there’s dollars out there.” Rice said “the peace dividend” from pulling out of Iraq and Afghanistan would provide funds. He also suggests letting the Bush tax cuts expire and putting the increased revenue into the economy, investing in new job creation, small business development and education.
Rice said he has a good chance of winning the primary battle against Nia Gill and Donald Payne Jr. even though his opponents have picked up some impressive endorsements. “I’m a Rice. just like my dad, Sen. Ronald L. Rice has won off the line on three successive occasions, it’s in my blood to do so,” Rice said. “This is a grassroots movement that we’re talking about here. It’s about putting a new generation of leadership into office.”
He said while he doesn’t have the party support of his opponents, former Gov. Richard Codey supports him, as well as many municipal officials. “They’re not afraid of the machine but indeed are embracing a new generation of leadership and I’m proud to say that the majority of my colleagues on the city council are endorsing my candidacy as well,” Rice said.
Getting financial support is another hurdle Rice believes he can overcome. “Progressives all over this country are giving us dollars and contributing to this campaign, not only in money but in foot soldiers and getting us volunteers,” he said. “That’s what’s going to make a difference here.” He added that he’s the only candidate that has been endorsed by Democracy for America, an organization founded by Howard Dean.
Rice said the short amount of time before the primary works to his advantage. “It’s about who can grab their voters, identify their voters and get them to the polls. It’s really turnout. It’s about organization. We have the best grassroots organization,” he said. “I have an army out here.”
Rice also responded to criticisms from Gill who said he has not handled paperwork correctly. “It’s just incorrect,” he said. He explained that he ran marathons to raise money for charities including literacy programs and a small business association, which he said is allowable by law.
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