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Rhode Island Democrats Reject Tradition, Choose Division Over Unity

Government and Politics

January 29, 2025


Warwick, R.I. - In a shameful and unprecedented move, Rhode Island Senate Democrats have refused to pass a resolution congratulating President Donald J. Trump on his historic re-election and inauguration. This resolution, brought forward by Senate Minority Leader Jessica de la Cruz, Senate Minority Whip Gordon Rogers, Senator Elaine J. Morgan, and Senator Thomas J. Paolino, follows a long-standing tradition of recognizing incoming presidents-regardless of party.

Every four years, the Senate has honored this tradition, setting aside partisanship to wish success to the incoming administration. Yet, Rhode Island Democrats chose instead to alienate our state from the rest of the country, prioritizing their personal disdain for a president over the best interests of Rhode Islanders.

“This is just the latest in a long line of bad decisions by Rhode Island’s Democratic leadership-but it may be one of their worst,” said RI GOP Chairman Joe Powers. “ Instead of working with the federal government to ensure Rhode Island has a seat at the table, they are sending a message that they would rather divide us than move our state forward.”

The resolution not only recognized President Trump’s inauguration but also acknowledged his historic accomplishment as the first president since Grover Cleveland to serve non-consecutive terms. It also highlighted key policy successes, such as border security, energy independence, and tax cuts that have directly benefited working families.

“The Rhode Island Democrats have made it clear: they care more about pushing their agenda of division than doing what’s best for the people of our state,” Powers continued. “Rhode Islanders deserve far better than a legislature that is more focused on snubbing the President than working to secure federal support and opportunities for our communities.”

The Rhode Island Republican Party remains committed to fighting for a state government that puts people before politics and ensures Rhode Island isn’t left behind by failed leadership.