Jenni Furtado Named Rhode Island Democratic Party Chair
State Representative Jenni Furtado assumes the leadership role following the resignation of Liz Beretta-Perik.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in People
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House Speaker Chris Blazejewski has appointed 33-year-old Representative Jenni Furtado to lead the Rhode Island Democratic Party. This transition follows the departure of former chairwoman Liz Beretta-Perik.
Why it matters
The leadership change arrives after Liz Beretta-Perik stepped down from her position. Her resignation was prompted by fraud charges brought against her husband in Ohio.
Jenni Furtado, who currently represents House District 64 covering portions of East Providence and Pawtucket, is 33 years old. She was first elected to her legislative seat in November 2024.
The players
Jenni Furtado
She is a state representative who was elected to represent House District 64 in 2024.
Chris Blazejewski
He serves as the Speaker of the Rhode Island House of Representatives.
Liz Beretta-Perik
She is the former chairwoman of the Rhode Island Democratic Party.
The details
The appointment was announced by House Speaker Chris Blazejewski on October 21, 2026. The Democratic State Committee is expected to meet in the coming days to formally ratify the selection of Furtado as the new chairwoman.
Timeline
November 2024: Jenni Furtado was elected to represent House District 64.
October 21, 2026: House Speaker Chris Blazejewski announced Furtado as the new chairwoman.
Market Landscape
This leadership transition marks a departure from typical party stability, necessitated by sudden external legal pressures impacting the previous administration. The shift alters the internal hierarchy of the state party at a critical point in the legislative cycle.
The transition may shift local party strategy and legislative priorities for residents in East Providence and Pawtucket. Citizens should expect updates regarding official party policy as the new chairwoman assumes her duties.
The takeaway
The sudden change in party leadership highlights the impact of personal legal challenges on political institutions. Voters in District 64 can expect their representative to balance legislative duties with her new organizational responsibilities.
What happens next
The Democratic State Committee will meet to formally ratify the appointment of Jenni Furtado as the new chairwoman in the days ahead.
Further reading
For more on state leadership changes, explore Rhode Island People.
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