CCRI to host Bill Clinton Thursday
By: Melissa Randall
@MRandallABC6
The sign at the bottom of the hill at CCRI’s Warwick location reads: Welcome President Clinton. He’ll be on the schools Knights Campus Thursday to campaign for his wife, Hillary Clinton. The visit comes 2 weeks ahead of the state’s primary, but was announced last minute.
“We found out that the president was coming on Tuesday– late Tuesday. So we’ve had about a day and a half, a day and 2/3 to really get ready for it, but we’re ready!” said CCRI spokesperson Rich Coren.
The President will speak to voters in the Great Hall. Crews were busy Wednesday afternoon moving chairs and tables and making preparations. Later Wednesday night Hillary’s campaign team will finish transforming the space.
“It’s wonderful for our students. They get to experience the whole political process and see it from the inside in a way that they ordinarily wouldn’t,” said Coren.
Republican front runner Donald Trump was also considering coming to the ocean state this week, but has since decided against the Friday visit it citing security concerns. Still, CCRI officials say if he does come in the future they have a space for him to speak.
That offer is available to any candidate of any party. But for now the school’s focus is on making sure everything runs smooth for the Hillary campaign, and for those who need to be on campus for regular obligations.
“We sent out communications internally yesterday. Classes will be going on exactly as normal. The cafeteria is open for students who need lunch. We’re really doing business as usual,” said Coren.
The event is free and open to the public. Great hall holds 1,500 people. Seating is first come first serve. Doors open at 11:30 am and the speaking portion is set to start at 12:30.
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