Valarie Lawson elected Rhode Island Senate President after Ruggerio’s passing

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Senator Valarie Lawson (D-East Providence) was elected President of the Rhode Island Senate on April 29, 2025, following the death of longtime Senate leader Dominick Ruggerio earlier this month.

Lawson, who previously served as Majority Leader, now steps into one of the most powerful roles in state government after winning a three-way vote with 24 votes, challenger Sen. Ryan Pearson had eight, and all four Republicans voted for Senate Minority Leader Jessica de la Cruz.

Lawson’s leadership comes as her district faces major challenges, including the ongoing Washington Bridge crisis. The bridge, a critical connection along Interstate 195, was abruptly closed in December 2023 due to structural failures. Residents in East Providence and surrounding communities have faced severe traffic disruptions, and the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) has been widely criticized for its handling of the situation. A complete demolition and replacement of the bridge is underway, but frustrations remain high across the region.

Beyond local infrastructure issues, Lawson’s election raises broader ethical questions. She remains the president of the National Education Association Rhode Island (NEARI), the state’s largest teachers’ union. Although the Rhode Island Ethics Commission previously ruled she could vote on pension-related legislation under the “class exception” rule, concerns continue about potential conflicts of interest as she takes on a broader legislative agenda.

As Senate President, Lawson will oversee Rhode Island’s legislative priorities, budget negotiations, and committee assignments, all while managing scrutiny over her dual roles and the urgent needs of her East Providence district.