STATE HOUSE — The Rhode Island Senate Minority Caucus is proud to announce the election of Jessica de la Cruz (R-Dist. 23, Burrillville, Glocester, North Smithfield) to serve as the Senate Minority Leader and Gordon E. Rogers (R-Dist. 21, Foster, Scituate, Coventry, West Greenwich) as Senate Minority Whip.
 

The election comes following the decision by Senate Minority Leader Dennis Algiere to not seek reelection after 30 years on Smith Hill. Senator Algiere, who had been Minority Leader since 1997, will continue his distinguished service to the state as a Senator until January 2023.

“I’m deeply honored that my caucus has entrusted me with this nomination," Leader de la Cruz said. "I recognize this comes with tremendous responsibility at a critical moment for Rhode Islanders. I have immense optimism about our state's future despite the uncertainty ahead. One thing that was always certain was Senator Algiere’s steady hand. He remains one of the finest examples of a statesman. His leadership was always reliable and unfaltering which is why he is universally respected throughout our state. I cannot thank him enough for his guidance over the last 4 years and I promise I will constantly thrive to meet the moment with the very high standard he has set for this privileged position.”

Whip Rogers commented, “Our state is facing enormous challenges that many legislators are ready to tackle. I am so proud to have the honor of representing my district and all Rhode Islanders who want and deserve to have their voices heard, particularly from the rural communities. I stand committed to the bold, structural changes we need in Rhode Island. I am eager to continue my many years of public service and am excited to do so with the help of my colleagues in a role that will enable me to assist Leader de la Cruz build our caucus and champion issues that are critical to our communities. I am very grateful to Senator Algiere for his help in navigating the upper chamber. His time in the senate was always unselfish and for public service in every sense of the word.”