Harold M. Metts (born March 13, 1946) is an American politician who served as a Democratic member of the Rhode Island Senate from 1999 to 2023, representing the 4th District (previously the 3rd District). Prior to his tenure in the Senate, Metts served in the Rhode Island House of Representatives from 1991 to 1998.
During his Senate career, Metts held several leadership positions, most notably serving as President pro tempore of the Rhode Island Senate from 2009 to 2010. His election to that role marked the first time an African‑American held the position in the state's legislative history. He also chaired the Senate Committee on Education and the Senate Committee on Corporations.
Metts was born in Providence, Rhode Island, and is affiliated with the Democratic Party. Throughout his legislative service, he focused on issues such as education reform, economic development, and civil rights. He was succeeded in the Senate by fellow Democrat Aaron Regunberg after losing a primary election in 2022.
