David Morales elected mayor of Providence, Rhode Island

David Morales, a 28-year-old Democrat and current Rhode Island state representative, has been elected mayor of Providence, Rhode Island. Morales secured more than 80% of the vote in the Tuesday election, defeating Republican candidate Dave Talan.

Morales, who previously defeated incumbent Mayor Brett Smiley in the September Democratic primary, is set to become the youngest mayor in the city's history when he takes office in January 2027. He will serve as Providence's 40th mayor.

Outside of politics, Morales is a professional wrestler for the Renegade Wrestling Alliance (RWA), where he performs under the persona “The Commissioner,” a character portraying a corrupt politician. He is a three-time RWA Hype Champion. While his wrestling career was used by opponents in campaign advertisements, Morales has noted the overlap between politics and professional wrestling, citing elements such as showmanship, drama, and theater.