Mark Zaccaria is the new RIGOP Chair

A special election was held tonight to choose a new leader for the Rhode Island Republican Party.

After the first round of balloting, the results were:

Mark Zaccaria – 82 (46.33%)
Raymond McKay – 59 (33.33%)
Tina McKendall – 36 (20.33%)

A total of 177 votes were cast by the Delegates present.

No candidate received a simple majority after the first round of balloting (a majority in this case would have been 89 of 177).

Prior to a possible second round of balloting, RIRA President Raymond McKay withdrew his name from consideration and endorsed Mark Zaccaria.

Several minutes later, Tina McKendall also withdrew from the race and endorsed Mark Zaccaria.

Being one candidate left on the ballot, Mark was then elected by acclamation as the new RIGOP Chairman.

Mark then delivered his acceptance speech and was congratulated by all with a standing ovation.

As the meeting adjourned several hours earlier than most expected, many went to the adjoining bar to wind-down.

Congratulations, to our new RIGOP Chairman Mark Zaccaria!