Politics
North Smithfield rally draws about 75 to promote early midterm voting
About 75 people gathered along Victory Highway on Oct. 17 for a “No Kings” demonstration encouraging Rhode Islanders to vote early in the midterm elections. The event echoed similar rallies around the state and country.
NORTH SMITHFIELD, R.I. — About 75 demonstrators lined Victory Highway on Saturday, Oct. 17, urging voters to cast their ballots early in the midterm elections as part of a broader “No Kings” campaign taking place around Rhode Island and the country.
The gathering featured signs and costumes, including a pink frog outfit worn by Jenn Plante, an organizer with the Burrillville Democratic Committee. Other participants included Rita Greene dressed as Lady Liberty and a demonstrator in an Uncle Sam costume.
The crowd included residents from across the region, among them Donna Marcelonis of West Warwick, Paula Elfering of North Smithfield and Diane Hall of Manville. Siblings Rosalie Marin and Leon Famine also held signs, while Anika Bedrosian attended with her two sons and encouraged passersby to vote early.
The event focused on voter participation ahead of the 2026 midterms. Organizers’ message was simple: voters can make a plan to cast their ballots before Election Day.