Edward DiPrete, who served as Rhode Island's governor from 1985 to 1991, passed away at the age of 91. While his tenure included infrastructure projects and economic initiatives, his later years were shadowed by legal troubles—a bribery scandal led to a guilty plea in 1998. His death marks the closing of a complicated political chapter for the state.

Editor’s Note: DiPrete’s legacy is a mixed bag—he was a consequential figure in Rhode Island politics, but his career’s later stains make his story a cautionary tale about power. For locals, it’s a moment to reflect on how political reputations can shift over time, and for historians, it’s a reminder that even controversial leaders leave lasting marks on their communities.