WARWICK, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island residents gathered Tuesday night for the vice presidential debate. The Rhode Island Young Republicans hosted a watch party in Warwick. “We’re unified together,” chairman Ken Naylor said. “There’s still a long ways to go, but I think Trump is out front.” The Rhode Island Democratic Party rallied in Pawtucket in support of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz during his first major appearance on the debate stage. Walz garnered local attention when he visited Newport over the summer. “He’s been our coach, our football coach,” Congressman Gabe Amo said. “He’s been a governor, a member of the House, he served our country in the Minnesota National Guard, and he’s ready to take on the role of being a chief operating partner to the president of the United States.” On the other side, Republicans were energized behind the youth of Ohio Senator JD Vance. “I think JD Vance does a great job keeping his cool,” Rhode Island Republican Party Chairman Joe Powers said. “He’s the perfect running mate for Donald Trump, he’s the perfect ying to the yang.” Both parties criticized aspects of the opposing candidate. “JD Vance called Trump ‘America’s Hitler,'” Providence resident Art Solomon said.  “And now all of a sudden he’s a great fan.” “[Walz] has certainly run a very progressive agenda in Minnesota,” New England Young Republicans Director Jared Valanzola said. “That agenda is not going to translate well for the American people.” One segment of common ground was that members of both parties wanted another presidential debate. “I think, while it’s important to hear from the running mates, it would be nice to see President Trump and Vice President Harris have another debate where they can continue to talk about those policies that matter to the American people,” Valanzola concluded. Categories: News, Pawtucket, Politics, Rhode Island, Warwick