James Seveney is a politician from Rhode Island. He is a state senator representing the Bristol, Portsmouth, and Tiverton area, which is the 11th district. He is a member of the Democratic Party.
Early life
editSeveney was born in Rhode Island. He attended Rhode Island College for his bachelor's degree and Naval Postgraduate School for his master's degree.[1] Seveney's father, Gardner "Scuppy" Seveney, served in the Rhode Island Senate from 1978 to 1986.[2]
Seveney was a naval officer for 21 years. He specialized in aerospace engineering and defense systems acquisition.[1] Following his naval career, Seveney worked as a defense consultant.[2]
Political career
editSeveney served on the Portsmouth School Committee from 2000 to 2004. In 2004 he ran for Portsmouth Town Council, serving as both the council president and vice-president.[2] He won serving until 2016, where he announced his campaign for Rhode Island State Senate. He has been serving in the state legislature since 2016.[1]
In the legislature, Seveney has been active on substance abuse-related issues, especially involving educating young people.[3] In 2019, Seveney proposed a $300 fine for those pulled over for driving under the influence and refuse to take a Breathalyzer test.[4] Seveney has also advocated for more funding toward mental health and suicide prevention, especially with veteran populations.[3]
Personal life
editSeveney has been married to his wife Val for over 40 years.[2] The two met while both were students at Rhode Island College.[2] They have two children.[1]
References
edit- ^ a b c d "James Seveney". State of Rhode Island General Assembly. Retrieved 3 December 2020.
- ^ a b c d e Pina, Alisha A. (18 December 2016). "Senator-elect James Seveney gets to follow in his dad's footsteps". Providence Journal. Retrieved 3 December 2020.
- ^ a b Prosnitz, Frank. "Under The Dome: Senator James Seveney | What's Up Newp". What's Up Newp. Retrieved 3 December 2020.
- ^ "Rhode Island lawmaker proposes new fine for DUI convictions". WJAR. 10 February 2019. Retrieved 3 December 2020.