The Rhode Island Republican primary for the 2nd Congressional District on September 9 centers on Stephen Skoly and Victor Mellor. Skoly secured the state party endorsement in June and holds a modest polling edge, which supports his slight lead in trader pricing. Mellor, a Marine veteran and businessman, has raised far more campaign funds and draws support from figures like Michael Flynn. A scheduled televised debate following earlier procedural disputes could highlight differences on issues such as border security, parental rights, and government mandates. With the contest closely balanced and limited time remaining, fundraising momentum, turnout among core Republican voters, and debate performance represent key variables that may shift the outcome before polls close.