RI GOP names new executive director

Aidan Carey, who graduated from the College of the Holy Cross this year, is the new executive director of the Rhode Island Republican Party. (Contributed photo)

A recent college graduate has been named the new head of the Rhode Island GOP.

Aidan Carey, who graduated from the College of the Holy Cross this year, will serve as the state Republican Party’s executive director, according to an announcement on Wednesday.

Carey’s hiring comes four months after the GOP’s former full-time leader, Jesus Solorio, stepped down, The Providence Journal reported . For much of its recent history, the state Republican party has been a volunteer effort, headed by Chairman Joe Powers.

Powers praised Carey’s “impressive” track record, including as current chair of the Lincoln Republican Town Committee as well as his involvement in several state party committees related to messaging, budget, and by-laws.

“Aidan is truly a breath of fresh air,” Powers said in a statement. “The passion, intellect, and tireless work ethic have already made a significant impact on our party’s direction and I am confident that in his new role as executive director, he will continue to play a crucial role in the development and growth of the RI Republican Party.”

State Republicans have cited lack of party resources, including full-time staff, as a reason for the lack of candidates in state legislative and federal races.

Powers did not respond to inquiries for comment on Wednesday.

The Rhode Island Democratic Party also does not have an executive director, after its former full-time head, Emily Howe, stepped down in March.

Carey graduated from LaSalle Academy in 2020 before attending the College of the Holy Cross, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and political science.

He is also a monthly columnist for The Valley Breeze.

Carey did not respond to inquiries for comment on Wednesday.

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