PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — As the balance of power shifts in Washington, Rhode Islanders are wondering how the changes will affect state leadership. For the first time in four years, Republicans have taken control of the U.S. Senate, and the House is also nearing a GOP majority. While Rhode Island’s Congressional Delegation remains Democratic, there is some uncertainty about the impact a Republican-controlled Congress could have on the state. 2024 ELECTION RESULTS: National races, Rhode Island, Massachusetts balance of power Sen. Jack Reed, who currently ranks sixth in Senate seniority and has chaired the powerful Armed Services Committee since 2021, will lose that position when Republicans assume office in January. After winning re-election Tuesday, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse told 12 News that navigating these changes will be challenging. "We also have very big problems that we need to solve as a country," Whitehouse said. "If we can't get bipartisanship on those, we have to figure out how to take the fight to the public a lot more clearly." Massachusetts Rep. Jake Auchincloss noted that House leadership will impact federal funding for local projects. "The appropriation process requires House buy-in. So whether it's Democrat or Republican really matters in our ability to direct congressionally directed spending," Auchincloss explained. He pointed to Rhode Island’s Washington Bridge as an example, which has already received $221 million in federal grants but may require additional funding in the coming years. AHEAD: Fall River votes Republican for first time since 1950s Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW