About James
Rooted in Newport. Ready to Serve.
James Dring has spent most of his life in Newport — raising three daughters, serving in civic leadership, and fighting for the neighborhoods that make this city extraordinary.
01 / Background
A Newport Story
James Dring has called Newport home for most of his life. He and his family have put down deep roots here — in the schools, the neighborhoods, the waterfront community, and the civic life that makes Newport unlike anywhere else in New England.
A father of three teenage daughters, James understands firsthand what families need from their city — good schools, safe neighborhoods, parks worth visiting, and a government that actually listens.
He's seen firsthand how decisions made at City Hall ripple through everyday life — in traffic patterns, in housing costs, in whether our kids have safe places to play and our seniors have the services they deserve.
02 / Civic Service
A Record of Showing Up
James doesn't just talk about community — he's spent years doing the work. From the school committee to the planning board, he has served Newport in roles that demand real expertise, real accountability, and real commitment.
Chairman
Newport School Committee
Led the committee overseeing Newport's public schools, advocating for students, families, and educators across the city.
Past Chairman
Newport Planning Board
Guided land use decisions that shape how Newport grows — balancing development with the preservation of our historic character.
Chairman
Miantonomi Park Commission
Stewarded one of Newport's most beloved public spaces, ensuring it remains accessible and well-maintained for all residents.
Member
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks
Active member of a fraternal organization with deep roots in Newport's community and charitable life.
03 / Why He's Running
"I'm not running against anyone. I'm running for Newport."
— James Dring
Newport Deserves Better
James is running for City Council At-Large because he believes Newport is at a crossroads. Growth is coming — the question is whether it happens to us or with us.
He wants a seat at the table to ensure that development respects our historic character, that our waterfront stays accessible to everyone, and that every neighborhood — not just the ones that make the postcards — gets the attention it deserves.
04 / Values
What Guides James
Listen First
Good governance starts with hearing from the people most affected by decisions — not just the loudest voices in the room.
Act with Purpose
Every vote, every policy, every budget line should have a clear answer to the question: how does this help Newport residents?
Stay Accountable
James believes elected officials owe their constituents transparency, accessibility, and honest communication — always.