Former North Providence Police Chief to be named state senate Majority Whip

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — President of the Senate Dominick Ruggerio announced Thursday that he plans to appoint Sen. David Tikoian as the next Majority Whip of the Rhode Island Senate.

Tikoian worked as a State Police Officer for 23 years, before serving as North Providence Police Chief from 2017 to 2020.

He was first elected to the senate in 2022 after serving on the Smithfield Town Council.

“Sen. Tikoian has earned the respect of every member of this chamber,” Ruggerio said. “I am pleased to welcome him into this important role in our leadership team.”

Tikoian currently works as the Deputy General Manager of the Providence Water Supply Board.

He will replace Sen. Valarie Lawson, who was elected Senate Majority Leader in November.

“The members of our caucus bring varied ideas and insights to address the challenges facing our state,” Tikoian said. “My goal as part of this leadership team is to help my colleagues achieve their priorities to improve our state, on behalf of the constituents we serve.”