Incumbent Brett Smiley (D) and David Morales (D) are running in the Democratic primary for mayor of Providence, Rhode Island, on Sept. 9.

Mirroring many Democratic primaries across the country, Providence's Democratic mayoral primary features a moderate Democrat, Smiley, and a democratic socialist, Morales. Smiley, a first-term mayor, says his administration reduced violent crime, removed ATVs and dirt bikes from the streets, added new schools and homes throughout the city, and filed lawsuits against the Trump administration. Morales, a state representative, claims Smiley's accomplishments achieved too little, citing what he says are rising housing costs, overworked teachers, ignored transit riders, an unstable public works department, and an immigrant community fearful of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Heading into the election, two issues have defined the candidates' philosophical differences: affordable housing and the use of Flock surveillance cameras. On affordable housing, Morales says he would work toward a rent stabilization ordinance that Smiley vetoed in April 2026. The city council passed the ordinance by a 9-6 vote, which would have capped annual rent increases at 4% for certain apartments. Smiley instead proposes working with private developers to build more housing. For Flock cameras, which automatically take pictures of car license plates, Smiley acknowledges concerns over privacy and data sharing but says they help with public safety and should remain in place. Morales says Flock is "a for-profit business that cannot be trusted," and that he would work to remove the cameras.

Smiley was elected mayor of Providence in 2022. Before that, Smiley was Providence's chief operating officer, former Gov. Gina Raimondo's (D) chief of staff, and director of administration for Rhode Island. Smiley says, "Four years ago, we made a commitment that we would get back to the basics – strengthening our public safety, securing our city’s finances, and improving our city services to better serve our residents. We have come a long way over the past four years, and today, Providence is a safer, stronger, and more vibrant city, but there is still more work to do and serious challenges ahead."

Morales has represented the 7th District in the Rhode Island House of Representatives since 2021. Morales also served as the director of community programs for Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council and as director of diversity recruitment and access at Roger Williams University. Morales' campaign website says, "Today, Providence is the least affordable city in America for renters. Far too many of our neighbors are being priced out. At the same time, our public schools are understaffed, the presence of ICE continues to grow, and our city services are falling behind. As Mayor, David will help make Providence a city all our neighbors can afford and feel safe calling home."