NEW: Rep. Filippi Elected House Minority Leader, Chippendale Minority Whip

NEW: Rep. Filippi Elected House Minority Leader, Chippendale Minority Whip

Representative Blake Filippi has been elected the House Minority Leader following a vote by the House Republicans on Wednesday. 

This move comes a little over a month after the House GOP voted to remove Patricia Morgan as the leader following her endorsement of Joe Trillo for Governor. 

House Speaker Nick Mattiello has scheduled a Democratic caucus for Thursday.

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“We must restore confidence in our government. As minority leader, I will work to advance legislation that will bring lasting prosperity to Rhode Island. I am honored to come back to the capital and serve the good people of Rhode Island. It’s time for fresh ideas and a new way forward for our state. It is my promise to citizens across the state that House Republicans will put their priorities and principles first,” said Filippi. 

He previously served as Minority Whip and takes over at a time in which the Republican party in Rhode Island is in tatters. 

Chippendale Elected Minority Whip 

Republicans also elected Michael Chippendale, who has served since 2010, as Minority Whip. 

“I look forward to working with Leader Filippi. As a small businessman, thoughtful legislator, and trusted colleague, I know he will make an excellent leader who will skillfully guide our caucus forward,” said Chippendale. 

Chippendale previously served as a member of the House Oversight Committee, where he helped lead the investigation into UHIP.