Summary
A new poll shows that Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee might struggle to win his party's primary election due to low approval ratings. He faces a challenge from Helena Foulkes, who is leading in the poll, and potential competition from House Speaker Joe Shekarchi. McKee's popularity is affected by local issues, such as his handling of a bridge closure.
Key Facts
- Governor Dan McKee received low approval ratings in a recent poll, with 72% of respondents disapproving of his performance.
- McKee trails behind Helena Foulkes, who has 29% support, and Joe Shekarchi, who has 13% potential support if he runs.
- 42% of those polled are undecided about whom they would support in the Democratic primary.
- McKee's low popularity is partly due to his management of the Washington Bridge closure, which began in 2023.
- McKee became governor in 2021 after Gina Raimondo left to join the Biden administration.
- Despite facing a tough primary in 2022, McKee won the general election that year.
- The poll, conducted by the University of New Hampshire, included 711 Rhode Island residents with a 3.7 percentage point margin of error (5.1 for Democrats).
- Rhode Island is typically a Democratic stronghold, with recent support for Democratic candidates in national elections.
