Rhode Island GOP Elects New Chairman as 2026 Races Take Shape

Media barred from vote on new RI GOP chairman as potential candidates emerge for governor, Congress, and other offices.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 9:39am

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The Rhode Island Republican Party has elected a new chairman, with the media barred from observing the vote. Meanwhile, the political landscape is shifting ahead of the 2026 elections, with potential candidates emerging for key races like governor and Congress.

Why it matters

The selection of a new GOP chairman in Rhode Island could signal a shift in the party's direction and strategy heading into the 2026 elections. Additionally, the potential candidacies of figures like House Speaker Joe Shekarchi and former Treasurer Seth Magaziner could reshape the political landscape in the state.

The details

The Rhode Island Republican Party has elected a new chairman, though the media was barred from observing the vote. This comes as potential candidates begin to emerge for the 2026 elections, including House Speaker Joe Shekarchi who is considering a run for governor, and former Treasurer Seth Magaziner who may seek a congressional seat. Other notable developments include Republican newcomer Keith Hoffmann launching a campaign for attorney general, and Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien preparing to kick off his 2026 reelection bid.

  • The Rhode Island GOP elected a new chairman in January 2026.
  • The 2026 elections in Rhode Island are scheduled for November 2026.

The players

Joe Shekarchi

The current Speaker of the Rhode Island House of Representatives who is considering a run for governor in 2026.

Seth Magaziner

The former Rhode Island State Treasurer who may seek a congressional seat in 2026.

Keith Hoffmann

A Republican newcomer who has launched a campaign for Rhode Island Attorney General.

Donald Grebien

The Mayor of Pawtucket, Rhode Island who is preparing to kick off his 2026 reelection bid.

Joe Powers

The outgoing Chairman of the Rhode Island Republican Party.

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What they’re saying

“We must ensure that the Republican Party in Rhode Island is well-positioned to compete and win in the 2026 elections.”

— New RI GOP Chairman

What’s next

The new RI GOP chairman will work to build the party's infrastructure and recruit strong candidates ahead of the 2026 elections. Potential candidates like Shekarchi and Magaziner are expected to make decisions on their political futures in the coming months.

The takeaway

The selection of a new GOP chairman in Rhode Island, combined with the emerging 2026 political landscape, signals a pivotal moment for the state's Republican Party as it seeks to regain relevance and competitiveness in future elections.