Rhode Island governor projected to lose Democratic primary to former CVS executive
Also reported by The Hill
Summary
Helena Foulkes, a former CVS executive, won the Democratic primary for Rhode Island governor, defeating the current Governor Dan McKee. Foulkes is expected to win the November election because Rhode Island usually elects Democrats.Key Facts
- Helena Foulkes led Dan McKee with about 62% of the vote in the Democratic primary.
- Rhode Island has not elected a Republican governor since 2006, making the Democratic nominee the favorite.
- Dan McKee became governor after Gina Raimondo left to join the Biden administration and won a full term in 2022.
- McKee is the first sitting governor in eight years to lose a primary election.
- McKee faced criticism over the costly and delayed reconstruction of the Washington Bridge.
- Foulkes has no prior public office experience but has political family ties, including former senators.
- She aims to address housing affordability and healthcare accessibility, proposing a millionaire’s tax to fund home building.
- The Republican primary in Rhode Island is between Aaron Guckian and Elaine Pelino.
