Buddy Cianci, American lawyer and politician, 32nd Mayor of Providence (b. 1941)

Vincent "Buddy" Cianci Jr.: The Enduring Legacy of Providence's Tumultuous Mayor

Vincent Albert "Buddy" Cianci Jr. (pronounced see-AN-see; Italian pronunciation: [ˈtʃantʃi], CHAHN-chee; born April 30, 1941, died January 28, 2016) was a prominent American politician whose career was marked by extraordinary public service intertwined with significant legal controversies. Serving as the Mayor of Providence, Rhode Island, for two non-consecutive terms—from 1975 to 1984 and again from 1991 to 2002—Cianci became the longest-serving mayor in Providence's history, holding office for an impressive total of over 21 years. Beyond his mayoral duties, he was also a practicing attorney, a popular radio talk show host, and a keen political commentator, maintaining a public presence even during his periods away from elected office.

From Prosecutor to Providence's Political Dynamo

Cianci began his public service career as a state prosecutor in the Rhode Island Department of Attorney General, a role that honed his legal skills and introduced him to the intricacies of the justice system. His ambition and charismatic personality quickly propelled him into the political arena. He was first elected Mayor of Providence in 1974 as a candidate of the Republican Party, an impressive feat in a predominantly Democratic city. His initial tenure was characterized by a dynamic approach to urban development and a direct, often unconventional, style of leadership that resonated with many constituents. While in office, he publicly declared himself an independent, a political stance he maintained for many years, stating as late as 2009 that he held no party affiliation.

First Mayoral Term Ends in Controversy: The 1984 Conviction

Despite his initial successes and popularity, Cianci's first administration came to an abrupt end in 1984. He was forced to resign from office following serious felony charges. Specifically, Cianci pleaded nolo contendere (meaning "no contest") to charges that included assault, extortion, and false imprisonment. These charges stemmed from a widely publicized incident where he was accused of kidnapping and torturing a man he believed was romantically involved with his ex-wife. This dramatic turn of events led to a five-year suspended sentence, temporarily sidelining his political career and marking the first significant stain on his public record.

The Unlikely Comeback and Second Term

During his time out of office, Cianci transitioned into media, becoming a successful and engaging radio talk show host and political commentator. His show provided a platform for him to remain in the public eye, express his opinions, and maintain a connection with the Rhode Island populace. This enduring popularity and his unique ability to connect with voters paved the way for an extraordinary political comeback. In 1990, he was re-elected as Mayor of Providence, a testament to his resilient political appeal and the city's willingness to give him a second chance. His second term, beginning in 1991, saw Providence undergo significant urban renewal, often referred to as the "Providence Renaissance," with major projects transforming the city's landscape and economy.

"Operation Plunderdome" and Final Resignation

Cianci's second mayoral tenure, however, also concluded due to a federal felony conviction. In 2002, he was compelled to resign from office following his conviction on one count of racketeering conspiracy as part of "Operation Plunderdome." This extensive federal investigation uncovered widespread corruption within his administration, involving bribery, extortion, and kickbacks related to city contracts and jobs. Following his conviction, Cianci was sentenced to federal prison, where he served four years. This second conviction cemented his complex legacy as a leader who both revitalized his city and faced severe legal repercussions for corruption.

A Final Bid for Office and Enduring Legacy

After his release from prison, Cianci once again returned to his popular radio show, demonstrating his undiminished public presence and a clear desire to remain a part of Providence's civic life. In June 2014, he announced on his radio show that he would make another bid for the mayoralty, aiming for an unprecedented third return to office. Despite his enduring charisma and name recognition, Cianci was ultimately defeated in the 2014 mayoral election by the Democratic candidate, Jorge Elorza. Vincent "Buddy" Cianci Jr. passed away on January 28, 2016, leaving behind a complex and indelible mark on Providence, remembered as much for his transformative impact on the city as for the scandals that punctuated his long and controversial career.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buddy Cianci

Who was Vincent "Buddy" Cianci Jr.?

Vincent "Buddy" Cianci Jr. was an American politician, attorney, radio talk show host, and political commentator, most famously known for his two non-consecutive terms as the Mayor of Providence, Rhode Island.

How long did Buddy Cianci serve as Mayor of Providence?

Buddy Cianci served as Mayor of Providence for over 21 years across two terms: from 1975 to 1984 and again from 1991 to 2002. This makes him the longest-serving mayor in the city's history.

Why was Buddy Cianci forced to resign from office during his first term?

Cianci was forced to resign in 1984 after pleading nolo contendere to charges including assault, extortion, and false imprisonment related to an incident where he confronted a man believed to be romantically involved with his ex-wife.

What was "Operation Plunderdome" in relation to Buddy Cianci's second term?

"Operation Plunderdome" was a federal investigation into corruption within Cianci's administration during his second term. It led to his conviction for racketeering conspiracy in 2002, stemming from allegations of bribery and kickbacks related to city contracts, which forced his second resignation.

Did Buddy Cianci run for mayor again after his second conviction?

Yes, after serving federal prison time and resuming his radio career, Buddy Cianci announced a comeback bid for mayor in 2014. However, he was defeated in that election by Democratic candidate Jorge Elorza.