Jessica de la Cruz

Jessica de la Cruz is an American politician currently serving as a member of the Rhode Island Senate, representing the 23rd district. This district encompasses the entirety of Burrillville and Glocester, as well as a portion of North Smithfield. A member of the Republican Party, she was elected to the Senate in November 2018 and officially took office on January 1, 2019. Throughout her tenure, de la Cruz has held significant leadership roles, including serving as the Senate minority whip and later being appointed as the Senate minority leader. She has also been recognized for her role in providing the Republican rebuttals to the State of the State addresses delivered by Governor Dan McKee in both 2023 and 2025.

Early life and career

Jessica de la Cruz was born on July 20, 1981, in Rhode Island, where she was raised in a family with a rich cultural heritage. Her parents immigrated to the United States from Portugal, specifically from the islands of Madeira and the Azores. This background has likely influenced her perspectives and approach to public service, as she embodies the experiences of immigrant families in her community. Growing up in Rhode Island, de la Cruz was exposed to the values of hard work and community engagement, which would later shape her political career.

Before entering politics, de la Cruz pursued various professional endeavors that contributed to her understanding of the needs and challenges faced by her constituents. While specific details about her early career are not provided, it is common for individuals in public office to engage in community service, local business, or other forms of civic involvement prior to their legislative careers. This foundation often helps legislators connect with the people they serve and understand the complexities of governance.

Legislative service

Jessica de la Cruz's political career began to take shape when she was elected to the Rhode Island Senate on November 6, 2018. She represents the 23rd district, which includes all of Burrillville and Glocester, as well as part of North Smithfield. Her election marked a significant moment in her career, as she transitioned from private life to public service, taking on the responsibilities associated with representing her constituents at the state level.

Since assuming office on January 1, 2019, de la Cruz has been an active participant in the legislative process. Her role as a Republican senator has placed her in a position to advocate for policies that align with her party's values and priorities. In her early years in the Senate, she served as the Senate minority whip, a role that involved coordinating party strategy and ensuring party members were aligned on key votes and initiatives. This position required strong leadership skills and the ability to communicate effectively with her colleagues.

In 2022, de la Cruz was elevated to the position of Senate minority leader, a role that further expanded her influence within the Senate. As minority leader, she is responsible for representing the interests of the Republican caucus, articulating the party's stance on various issues, and leading discussions on legislative priorities. This leadership position also involves engaging with the public and media to convey the party's message and respond to the actions of the majority party.

Throughout her legislative career, de la Cruz has participated in various debates and discussions on a range of issues affecting her district and the state of Rhode Island. Her responsibilities include reviewing proposed legislation, participating in committee meetings, and working with constituents to address their concerns. She has also been involved in providing the Republican rebuttals to the State of the State addresses delivered by Governor Dan McKee, showcasing her role as a prominent voice for her party in the state.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Rhode Island Senate, Jessica de la Cruz represents a diverse constituency in the 23rd district. This district includes the towns of Burrillville and Glocester, as well as a portion of North Smithfield. Each of these areas has its unique characteristics and needs, which de la Cruz must consider when advocating for policies and legislation.

De la Cruz's policy focus aligns with the principles of the Republican Party, emphasizing fiscal responsibility, economic development, and community safety. While specific legislative initiatives she has championed are not detailed, it is common for legislators to prioritize issues such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and public safety based on the needs of their constituents. Given her background and leadership roles, it is likely that de la Cruz engages with her community to understand their priorities and advocate for policies that reflect those interests.

In her capacity as a senator, de la Cruz also plays a role in addressing broader state issues that impact her district. This includes collaborating with other legislators, stakeholders, and community leaders to develop solutions to challenges faced by residents. Her leadership positions have likely provided her with opportunities to influence key legislative discussions and contribute to the development of policies that benefit her constituents.

In addition to her legislative duties, de la Cruz's personal life is intertwined with her community engagement. She resides in the Forestdale section of North Smithfield with her husband, David, and their three children. David de la Cruz serves as one of the pastors at Awakening Church in Smithfield, indicating a commitment to community service and leadership that extends beyond the political arena. This family-oriented lifestyle may further inform her perspectives on policies related to education, family support, and community development.

Overall, Jessica de la Cruz's journey as a state legislator reflects her dedication to public service and her commitment to representing the interests of her constituents in Rhode Island. Through her leadership roles and active participation in the legislative process, she continues to shape the political landscape of her district and contribute to the governance of the state.