State lawmakers and local supporters showed up Thursday for the opening of the Hillary Clinton campaign headquarters in Providence. Many of the state’s Democratic leadership, including Governor Gina Raimondo are backing the former Secretary of State.

Warwick resident Justine Lutzel-Caldwell voted for Clinton in 2008 and favors her positions on women’s health.

“So reproductive justice is the most important issue for me, and I think that Hillary is the best person, who will fight for a woman’s rights for choice, and for childcare, and maternity care, and everything that affects women and families,” said Lutzel-Caldwell.

Brown University student Daniel Youkilis said he agrees with Clinton’s policies, and thinks she’ll be able to accomplish them in Washington

“I think her policies are progressive, but they’re attainable policies,” said Youkilis. “She’s released specific plans she knows exactly what she’s doing, she’s eminently qualified more so than anyone else in the race by far.”

Clinton beat Barack Obama in Rhode Island by 18 points in the 2008 primary. Her Democratic rival Bernie Sanders opens a Rhode Island campaign headquarters on Saturday.  Rhode Island’s Presidential primary is Tuesday, April 26th.

Governor Gina Raimondo speaks with Hillary Supporters at RI's new campaign headquarters in Providence.

Reporter John Bender was the general assignment reporter for The Public's Radio for several years. He is now a fill-in host when our regular hosts are out.