Sen. David Tikoian selected to be next Rhode Island Senate majority whip
State Sen. David P. Tikoian, a Smithfield Democrat and a former Rhode Island State Police major, is slated to become the third highest-ranking state senator when lawmakers return to the State House on Tuesday, Jan. 7.
Senate President Dominick J. Ruggerio announced Thursday his decision to appoint Tikoian as Senate majority whip. The whip acts as an enforcer for party policy, seeking compliance from members to vote in line with leadership.
“Senator Tikoian has earned the respect of every member of this chamber,” Ruggerio said in a statement issued Thursday afternoon. “David is a dedicated public servant of the highest integrity and a true statesman. He comports himself in a professional, forthright, genuine and courteous manner in all his interactions. I am pleased to welcome him into this important role in our leadership team.”
Tikoian would succeed Sen. Valarie Lawson, the East Providence Democrat who will serve as majority leader this session. Lawson was voted into the role in November, the same night Ruggerio squashed a challenge from former majority leader Sen. Ryan Pearson for the presidency.
Continued at: https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/sen-david-tikoian-selected-be-next-rhode-island-senate-majority-whip