Ruggerio Wins Democratic Vote - Set to Hold Senate Presidency

Ruggerio Wins Democratic Vote - Set to Hold Senate Presidency

Long-time Rhode Island State Senate President Dominick Ruggerio beat back a challenge from another member of his own leadership team. Ruggerio has been suffering from a number of serious health issues and missed much of the last session.

Senator Ryan Pearson of Cumberland challenged Ruggerio. He was the Senate Majority Leader.

But, Ruggerio appears to have slapped back the challenge winning the endorsement of Senate Dems on Thursday night 23-9 with one abstaining and one not attending the Democratic caucus.

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The Senate President is elected by all members of the Senate, including Republicans, on the first day of the new legislative session in January.

 

New Majority Leader

Senator Valarie Lawson (D – Dist. 14, East Providence) was elected to serve as the Democrats' new majority leader. She said, “I am deeply humbled by your support, and I will work each day to the best of my ability to live up to the responsibility.”

Ruggerio said, “It is truly humbling to receive the endorsement of this Caucus to serve another term as your Senate President. I have tremendous respect and admiration for everyone in this room. The members of this Chamber are leaders of excellence and dedication, each of you committed to making our state an even greater place to live and work. I am honored to serve alongside all of you.”

Ruggerio (D – Dist. 4, North Providence, Providence) also extended his congratulations to Lawson. “You are a dedicated and principled leader who will help advance the priorities of all the members of this Chamber. I look forward to working alongside you, in partnership with all the members of our Chamber, as a strong and unified Senate in the upcoming session.”