New 'League' Launches to Reshape Rhode Island’s Business Climate

Longtime Rhode Island business owner David Levesque, best known as the founder of the popular Brewed Awakenings café chain, is spearheading a new initiative designed to overhaul the state’s political landscape. Levesque has announced the formation of The League of Rhode Island Businesses (LORIB), a non-partisan, non-profit organization dedicated to electing pro-business legislators and bringing "common sense" back to the State House.
Levesque, who has operated businesses in the state for over 29 years, says the organization was born out of frustration.
"The League of Rhode Island Businesses was formed because we don't have a fair shake up at the State House," Levesque stated in a recent interview. "We want to ensure that legislators are pro-business, support lower taxes, and favor less regulation. Currently, Rhode Island does not rank as a business-friendly state due to high taxes and a complex system of rules and fees."
A Non-Partisan Approach
LORIB distinguishes itself by rejecting strict party lines. According to Levesque, the organization is willing to work with Democrats, Republicans, Independents, and Libertarians, provided they adhere to the Constitution and serve their constituents' best interests.
"We don't care if you're red or blue," Levesque explained. "All we care about is that you're following the Constitution you swore an oath to... When you get to the extremes and start to pass unconstitutional laws or create a budget like we have right now—which has grown from $8 billion to over $14 billion—that is unacceptable."
The "Engine" of Change
To combat what LORIB views as punitive regulations that drive investment out of the state, the organization has built a significant financial infrastructure. LORIB has established a network of 40 Political Action Committees (PACs), providing the financial capacity to contribute up to $1,000,000 annually toward candidates.
Beyond financial contributions, LORIB plans to offer endorsed candidates data-driven district analysis, message development, and grassroots support.
Policy Priorities and Early Endorsements
The League has outlined a specific set of policy priorities aimed at economic relief and retention. Key goals include:

• Balanced Budget: Enforcing a state budget based on sustainable tax revenues.
• Tax Reform: Eliminating the estate ("Death") tax and taxes on Social Security benefits to help retirees stay in Rhode Island.
• Transportation Competitiveness: Eliminating truck tolls to align with neighboring states.
• Property Rights: Repealing the surcharge on second homes (the so-called "Taylor Swift Tax").

The organization has already begun endorsing candidates for upcoming election cycles, including Mark Mesrobian (Senate District 36), Leah J. Boisclair (House District 36), and Laura Turini (Senate District 35).
Call to Action
Levesque is calling on concerned citizens and business owners to stop complaining on social media and take action.
"Rather than complain about it on Facebook, you can go to the website and get involved," Levesque urged. He noted that the organization has already raised over $100,000 and is preparing a monthly newsletter to keep members informed.
Residents interested in joining the movement or donating can visit theleagueofribusinesses.com.