Why were 11 lieutenant governors in Rhode Island last week? Inside the junket.

Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos hosted the National Lieutenant Governors Association's spring meeting in Providence, attracting 11 lieutenant governors from across the country. Despite the wet weather, the event, held from Wednesday to Friday, was well-received, with some attendees remaining for a weekend visit to Newport. Matos raised $85,000 in corporate sponsorships, with major contributors including Google and CVS Health, to ensure a balanced budget for the meeting.

The agenda featured significant discussions on topics like drug pricing and AI's role in government efficiency, emphasizing the importance of informed policymaking. Matos highlighted the value of bipartisan dialogue in a politically charged environment, reflecting on her conversations with Republican officials about tourism marketing strategies. The lieutenant governors collectively addressed neutral topics, such as tire safety awareness and anti-littering campaigns, fostering a spirit of cooperation. The event illustrated Rhode Island’s capacity to host significant gatherings while promoting cross-party collaboration. Overall, attendees left with positive impressions of the state and its potential for future meetings.