[2] In addition to improving governance in the legislature, Dickinson's successful 2010 campaign emphasized fiscal responsibility, rebuilding the state's economy (such as by supporting the University of Rhode Island, which he believes can serve as an important incubator for technology based businesses), and an alternative energy strategy focused on wind power which he believes would reduce dependence on foreign oil while creating construction and technology jobs.
[2] Dickinson was elected to the Rhode Island House of Representatives in 1972 where he served four terms before retiring in 1980.
During that time he championed environmental causes such as the Bottle Bill and was part of a group of reformers who, among other things, brought recorded voting to the Rhode Island General Assembly after assuming key leadership positions; Dickinson served as Deputy Majority Leader.
In a statement, he stated that a major issue is the danger from climate change and rising sea levels, with a particular threat being a proposed fracked-gas power plant.
Among other issues, he promised: a true resolution of 38 Studios; a review of pension management and restoring the Cost of Living Adjustment; a serious and detailed approach to bringing health care costs into line by developing a universal health care plan for Rhode Island, as well as advancing women's rights and fairness in the workplace.