CRANSTON — Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani headlined a “Rhode Island First” rally Saturday evening for Republican congressional candidate Vic Mellor, drawing supporters to the Park Theatre while a group of protesters demonstrated outside.
Rally aims to energize GOP base ahead of September primary
The Cranston event marked Mellor’s second rally this year under the “Rhode Island First” banner. Organizers said the gatherings are intended to mobilize Republican and independent voters ahead of the state’s Sept. primary, citing concerns that many in those groups do not turn out on election day.
Saturday’s program featured speeches and music. Attendees described the rally as an effort to increase turnout among conservative voters in the district. Everett Young, a supporter at the event, called it "a good event" focused on encouraging Rhode Islanders to vote.
"The GOP is ripe for the picking," one woman shouted through a megaphone as she drove by.
Protests follow pattern from earlier event
As at a similar rally in March held at the Crowne Plaza Providence-Warwick, a crowd of critics gathered outside the Park Theatre to voice opposition to both Mellor and Giuliani and to protest the venue’s decision to host the event. The March gathering included speakers such as former U.S. National Security Advisor Michael Flynn; organizers said Saturday’s rally was the second in a series of events intended to galvanize Mellor’s campaign.
Protesters used megaphones and signs to make their views known; some drove by the theatre and shouted slogans. The outside demonstrations were visible to passersby and attendees arriving for the evening program.
Where the campaign stands
Mellor is competing in a Republican primary scheduled for September. His campaign has emphasized turnout and outreach to voters who typically do not participate in primaries. Saturday’s Cranston rally is part of that push to consolidate support and broaden voter engagement ahead of the contest.
| Rally detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | "Rhode Island First" rally |
| Location | Park Theatre, Cranston |
| Headliner | Rudy Giuliani |
| Previous notable speaker | Michael Flynn (March rally) |
| Primary | September (Republican primary) |
Responses and reactions
Inside the theatre, attendees said the event boosted morale and served as a reminder to cast ballots in the upcoming primary. Outside, opposition voices criticized both the candidate and the event’s featured speaker.
- Supporters described the rally as upbeat and focused on voter encouragement.
- Protesters criticized Mellor and Giuliani and questioned the Park Theatre’s decision to host the event.
- Campaign organizers framed the gathering as part of a broader effort to increase turnout among Republicans and independents.
The presence of a high-profile national figure like Giuliani underscores an effort by Mellor’s campaign to draw attention and support from the wider conservative movement. It also illustrates how local contests can attract national personalities and the public reaction that often follows.
What’s next
With the primary approaching in September, Mellor’s campaign will likely continue organizing events aimed at motivating voters. Given the pattern of public demonstrations at recent rallies, campaign organizers and local officials may also be monitoring public safety and free speech considerations around future events.
Reporting on the event was based on coverage by NBC 10. No immediate reports indicated arrests or injuries related to Saturday’s protest activity at the Park Theatre.
Further developments in the race, including additional campaign events and endorsements, will be monitored and reported as they occur.
