The potential candidates include North Providence Town Council members Autiello and Famiglietti, former state Rep. Ranglin-Vassell, Democratic National Committeewoman Verdi, and three-time candidate C

Hogg has most recently drawn attention for his campaign to help younger progressive candidates oust veteran party stalwarts

And there is the pushback coming from the progressive faction within the Senate that sided with Sen. Ryan Pearson when he challenged the reelection of the ailing Ruggerio for Senate president at a Democratic caucus in November 2024. Ruggerio received 23 votes for president over Pearson's 9 votes that night at the Waterman Grille.

A simple majority of the now-37-member Senate will vote for a new president when the chamber reconvenes. A special election will take place later this year to fill the Senate District 4 seat.

With Ruggerio’s passing, the RI Senate faces a leadership shake-up. Key names are emerging, but uncertainty remains. Who will rise to the challenge?