For the first time in at least 15 years, the state is sending letters to every registered voter in Rhode Island to determine if they are still alive, and if they are still living at the address on their voter registration.

Early voting is underway for Providence’s Ward 2 City Council opening, where five candidates emerged after the seat became vacant midway through the Council’s term.

The Rhode Island Secretary of State is sending a mailing to all active registered Rhode Island voters, the office said in a media release. "The purpose of this mailing is to support the Elections Division's ongoing voter list maintenance efforts," the release said.

Campaign 2026 is already in full swing, in Rhode Island with candidates for several statewide offices aggressively raising money ahead of next year’s election.