Rhode Island

Rhode Island entered the Union on May 29, 1790 as the 13th state. Rhode Island was the last of the original thirteen states to ratify the Constitution, and its civic history combines maritime trade, manufacturing, immigration, and strong local community identity. Today its state government is centered in Providence and follows the bicameral model with a governor, a Senate, and a House of Representatives.

Median household income$84,972
Poverty rate10.8%
Median age40.8
GovernorDaniel McKee (Democratic)
Next statewide electionNovember 3, 2026

Government & Representation

Use this section to understand how the state organizes executive authority, legislative power, and federal representation.

Rhode Island organizes state government around an elected governor and a bicameral General Assembly with a Senate and a House of Representatives. Its compact size means statewide institutions often function as the primary venue for coordinating policy, oversight, and public services.

GovernorDaniel McKee (Democratic)governor.ri.gov

Lieutenant governorltgov.ri.gov

LegislatureRhode Island General Assembly

Legislature structureBicameral

Legislative chambersSenate and House of Representatives

State legislature websitewebserver.rilegislature.gov

Legislative searchvote.sos.ri.gov

State constitutionwebserver.rilegislature.gov

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U.S. Senators

Each state elects two U.S. senators to represent it in the Senate.

Senator Jack Reed

Rhode Island

Democratic Party

Jack has served in Congress since 1997.

Senator Sheldon Whitehouse

Rhode Island

Democratic Party

Sheldon has served in Congress since 2007.

U.S. House delegation

House seats are apportioned by population and organized by congressional district, except for at-large delegations where applicable.

Representative Gabe Amo

Rhode Island District 1

Democratic Party

Gabe has served in Congress since 2023.

Representative Seth Magaziner

Rhode Island District 2

Democratic Party

Seth has served in Congress since 2023.