K. Joseph Shekarchi didn’t get any argument when he told the House Democratic caucus Thursday evening that they “developed an agenda that was tremendously well received by the voters. In fact, Governor McKee campaigned in large part on the achievements of the General Assembly. He sure benefited from our great legislation that he signed.”

There were whoops and hollers along with applause and laughs of agreement from legislators gathered at the Crowne Plaza. The assembly of House Representatives and representatives-elect were equally in agreement to re-electing Shekarchi as Speaker and Christopher Blazejewski as majority leader.

Of the 65 House Democrats, Shekarchi received the support of 60. Two members were absent and three members, Rep. David Morales and Rep.-elect Enrique Sanchez, both of Providence, and Rep.-elect Jennifer Stewart of Pawtucket abstained.

There were no counter nominations.

In jest Shekarchi questioned if he had the votes to a reporter prior to the open caucus. Gaining votes has been Shekarchi’s quest since a Democrat and a Republican declared in June for the Warwick District 23 seat. Shekarchi went door-to-door, advertised extensively and hosted events giving him the win against Jacqueline Anderson in the primary and Republican Dana Traversie in the General Election.

His wins at the polls cemented his reelection by his peers that will become official when the House convenes Jan. 3 for the first day of the session.

In nominating Shekarchi, Majority Whip Katie Kazarian said “it is that calm, quiet determination that he has that has led us to getting so much legislation passed.” She said she has seen how Shekarchi and Blazejewski have changed “the entire tenor and demeanor of the House for the better.”

In second speech, Chairman Bob Craven said the leaders built a team of inclusiveness and “cooperation that was badly needed.” He called Shekarchi a “great listener.”

Shekarchi touched on the events of the past two years, the impact of the pandemic and how the House endured five months of session at the Veterans Auditorium. He said that despite the challenges “we still came together and delivered the values of the Democratic Party.”

He added “the results of the election proved that Rhode Islanders “share our goals and values.” Among achieves they collectively achieved, Shekarchi listed tax relief for working families, seniors, veterans and small businesses; legislation addressing climate change; a package of affordable housing bills; budget investments in housing, health care, child care, Covid relief and education and voting reforms and increased transparency in the government.

He said he and Blazejewski would soon embark on formulating an agenda for the new session. He welcomed suggestions and priorities adding, “we have a tremendous amount of talent in this room and we are confident that with your collective collaboration, we will continue to deliver for all Rhode Islanders.”