Draft:Xay Khamsyvoravong
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Xaykham "Xay" Rexford Khamsyvoravong (born June 1, 1984) is an American attorney, business executive, and politician who served as mayor of Newport, Rhode Island. He has also served as chair of Providence Water,[1] chair of the Rhode Island Governor's Workforce Board, and vice president of the Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns.
In 2026, Khamsyvoravong became a candidate for lieutenant governor of Rhode Island, seeking the Democratic nomination in the September 9, 2026, primary election.
Early Life and Education
[edit]Khamsyvoravong was born and raised in Rhode Island and grew up in Barrington. He is the son of a Laotian refugee who resettled in the United States after the Vietnam War and a pediatrician. His father's experience as a refugee and his family's commitment to public service have been cited as formative influences on his interest in government and civic engagement. As a youth, Khamsyvoravong was a nationally competitive figure skater.[2]
Khamsyvoravong attended Rhode Island public schools before enrolling at Brown University, where he earned a bachelor's degree while working to help pay for his education. In He later received a Juris Doctor from Roger Williams Law School, where he met his wife.[3]
Career
[edit]During the 2008 financial crisis, he served as deputy chief of staff to Rhode Island General Treasurer Frank T. Caprio, where he worked on state fiscal and economic issues. Following his time in the treasurer's office, Khamsyvoravong worked as the Senior Vice President of Webster Bank, the Managing Director for CBRE Investment Management, and most recently as the Director of PFM Financial Advisors.[4]
Khamsyvoravong later entered municipal government in Newport, Rhode Island. He was elected[5] to the Newport City Council and subsequently served as the city’s mayor until December 2024. During his tenure, the city expanded investments in infrastructure, affordable housing, climate resilience, and public education. His administration also established Newport's Resilience and Sustainability Office and advanced renewable energy initiatives.
As a city councilor, Khamsyvoravong was involved in efforts to preserve the Newport Hospital Birthing Center[6] after its proposed closure, working with state and local officials to advocate for continued access to maternity care on Aquidneck Island.
In addition to his elected service, Khamsyvoravong has held several statewide leadership positions. He has served as chair of Providence Water,[1] where he has overseen initiatives including the replacement of lead service lines, modernization of water infrastructure, and expansion of renewable energy projects. He has also serves as chair of the Rhode Island Governor's Workforce Board[7], focusing on workforce development and employer partnerships, and as vice president of the Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns.
Outside of government, Khamsyvoravong has worked in the private sector as an attorney and business executive.
Personal Life
[edit]Khamsyvoravong lives in Rhode Island with his wife, Alicia,[2] and their cat, Gracie. Outside of public service, he has participated in civic and community organizations throughout the state, such as Grow Smart Rhode Island.[8]
References
[edit]- 1 2 Staff, P. B. N. (2013-11-09). "Xay Khamsyvoravong". Providence Business News. Retrieved 2026-08-06.
- 1 2 Jaehnig, Dan (April 24, 2024). "Inside the life of Newport Mayor Xay Khamsyvoravong".
- ↑ "Xay For RI". Xay For RI. Retrieved 2026-08-05.
- ↑ "PFM Welcomes Xay Khamsyvoravong". PFM. Retrieved 2026-08-06.
- ↑ Clem, Lauren (April 20, 2023). "Who Holds the Most Power in Rhode Island?".
- ↑ Wilkinson, Kate (July 15, 2025). "Councilors plead for Newport Hospital birthing center to stay open".
- ↑ "Governor McKee Nominates Three New Members to Governor's Workforce Board | Governor's Office, State of Rhode Island". governor.ri.gov. Retrieved 2026-08-05.
- ↑ Staff, P. B. N. (2015-12-19). "Xay Khamsyvoravong". Providence Business News. Retrieved 2026-08-05.
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