PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI)— As President-elect Donald Trump and his team prepare to return to the White House, Rhode Island leaders are considering how to navigate a new GOP-led federal landscape. Though Vice President Kamala Harris carried Rhode Island by a double-digit margin, Trump still gained support in all 39 cities and towns compared to 2020. 2024 ELECTION RESULTS: National races, Rhode Island, Massachusetts balance of power This has left some wondering — what went wrong? On Thursday, Rhode Island’s congressional delegation responded to questions about the 2024 election results, suggesting that Democrats need to take voters' concerns more seriously and amplify their message. "I think we have to be much more aggressive in getting the message out of what we've accomplished," Sen. Jack Reed said. "We have to get that message out more and more. And that's a challenge." "There were an awful lot of people across the country who were upset, who did not like the direction our country was going. The poll numbers showed that," Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse added. "I'm afraid that too many Democrats looked like we were sort of pooh-poohing their concerns." READ ALSO: Biden addresses nation after decisive Trump win Republicans also gained control of the Senate, the first time in four years, meaning Reed will lose his Armed Services Committee chairmanship in January. Reed voiced concerns over Trump’s stance on Ukraine funding. "I hope he recognizes the need to support the Ukrainian people and, not essentially, accommodate Putin. That would be a mistake," Reed said. Local leaders also discussed the fate of federal funding for the Washington Bridge. Whitehouse expressed confidence, noting successful collaborations for grants under Trump's prior term. "I think we're going to continue to seek additional funding on the Washington Bridge. Right now, $220 million is banked for the bridge, and we don't even have a contractor or plan," Whitehouse said. "So, we've done our job in the delegation to put the money in place, and we're going to continue to do that." Gov. Dan McKee confirmed ongoing coordination with the delegation to protect those funds for the bridge project. "They have a plan to make sure that those dollars that are committed stay committed to the Washington Bridge," McKee assured. NEXT: GOP takeover in Washington raises questions for local delegates Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Nesi's Notes SIGN UP NOW