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Cranston Today
By the People, for the People
Rep. Magaziner Attends Reality TV Party Amid Government Shutdown
Congressman caught sneaking into 'Real Housewives of Rhode Island' premiere event as shutdown nears 50 days
Apr. 5, 2026 at 4:05am
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As the federal government's partial shutdown approached 50 days, Rep. Seth Magaziner (D-R.I.) was caught on camera slipping through the side entrance of an upscale watch party for 'The Real Housewives of Rhode Island.' Magaziner co-hosted the event alongside other state lawmakers, even as TSA employees collected their first paychecks in a month and a half.
Why it matters
Democrats have positioned themselves as the party concerned about the human toll of the government shutdown, pointing to unfunded agencies, unpaid workers, and travel chaos. Magaziner's attendance at a reality TV party during the shutdown raises questions about the party's priorities and commitment to resolving the crisis.
The details
Magaziner was spotted at the Elliotte on Park venue in Cranston, Rhode Island, on Thursday night, hobnobbing and posing for photos with cast members and other attendees. He co-hosted the event alongside Democrat state lawmakers Rep. Jackie Baginski and Sen. Hanna Gallo, who had posted an open invite on her Facebook page earlier in March.
- The event began at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 4, 2026.
- The first episode of 'The Real Housewives of Rhode Island' aired at 9:00 p.m. on the same Thursday.
The players
Rep. Seth Magaziner
A Democratic congressman from Rhode Island who was caught attending and co-hosting a 'Real Housewives of Rhode Island' premiere party during the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Rep. Jackie Baginski
A Democratic state lawmaker in Rhode Island who co-hosted the 'Real Housewives of Rhode Island' premiere party with Magaziner.
Sen. Hanna Gallo
A Democratic state senator in Rhode Island who co-hosted the 'Real Housewives of Rhode Island' premiere party with Magaziner and Baginski.
What they’re saying
“I can't wait to see our state in the spotlight, and remember ... bring a friend, bring the drama!”
— Sen. Hanna Gallo, Democratic state senator
“Representative Magaziner believes it is outrageous that Speaker Johnson continues to refuse to call the house back from recess.”
— Magaziner's office
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
