William P. Fitzpatrick
Irish-born retired American politician
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William P "Will" Fitzpatrick (born 1961) is an Irish-born retired American politician. A Democrat, he served from 1993-97 in the Rhode Island Senate.
Will Fitzpatrick | |
|---|---|
| Member of the Rhode Island Senate from the 11th district | |
| In office January 1993 – January 1997 | |
| Preceded by | David H. Sholes |
| Succeeded by | Elizabeth H. Roberts |
| Personal details | |
| Born | William P Fitzpatrick 1961 (age 64–65) |
| Party | Democratic |
Born and raised in Ireland, he was educated by the Roman Catholic Patrician Brothers before emigrating to the United States. A computer programmer by trade, Fitzpatrick ran for the Rhode Island Senate from the 11th district in 1992, comprising parts of Cranston. He defeated seven-term incumbent David H. Sholes in the Democratic primary election held on September 15, 1992 and went on to win the general election. A resident of Edgewood, he served two terms, holding office from January 1993 until January 1997. He was not a candidate for re-election to a third term in November 1996 and was succeeded by Elizabeth H. Roberts, who went on to be elected Lieutenant Governor.[1]
Sexual orientation
A gay man, Fitzpatrick confirmed his sexual orientation to the media weeks after his election in November 1992. He was the first ever openly gay member of the Rhode Island Legislature.[2][3][4]
Personal life
Fitzpatrick resides in California.[citation needed]