Long time GOP state lawmaker Joe Trillo surprised just about everybody when he announced he'll run for Governor as an Independent. It was no shock he was running as he had an exploratory committee earlier this year but leaving the GOP had pundits doing new electoral math in the governor's race. Trillo told me he didn't think he could win a GOP primary because his party leaders have backed Cranston Mayor Alan Fung PLUS he realizes he needs Democrat support to pull off a win. Trillo says he's still all in when it comes to Trump's beliefs and any suggestion his disaffiliation is a rejection of the President is wrong. Trillo told me I'd be surprised to know how many RI Democrats support Trump. He's right, I'd be surprised...if not flat out shocked....but Trillo's confident he can sway them his way in a general election. Running as an Indy assures Trillo of getting to the general election and avoiding having to spend dough on a GOP primary. As for other assurances, stay tuned.