The announcement stunned both Republicans and Democrats alike last night.
Rhode Island state Representative Blake Filippi is not seeking re-election.
The Republican representing South County has been the Minority Leader in the RI House since 2018.
Effective as of Filippi's announcement on the House floor Thursday night, Representative Mike Chippendale of Foster has been promoted to Minority Leader from his position as a whip.
Filippi says it is time for him to step aside and make way for new public servants.
(Photo provided by Rhode Island General Assembly)
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