Powers, who has led the state GOP since March 2023, "is stepping down due to the increased demands of his professional workload," the party said.

The leader of Rhode Island’s Republican Party is stepping down, less than one year after winning a second term in a contentious and competitive internal election. GOP Chairman Joe Powers announced his resignation on Sunday — though it doesn’t take effect until Jan.

Results for the 2024 Rhode Island Mayor Warwick general election. Find Rhode Island and national elections results at BostonGlobe.com.

With the Rhode Island General Assembly session scheduled to begin on Jan. 6, WhatsUpNewp has reached out to the area’s legislators to learn what they see as the most pressing issues facing Rhode Island in 2026,