Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee experienced a stunning defeat in the Democratic primary, losing to Helena Foulkes, a businesswoman with a notable career in the corporate sector. This marks the first time since 2018 that a sitting governor has been denied renomination by their party. Foulkes previously held executive roles at CVS Health and serves on the board of Costco.
McKee, who ascended to the governor’s office in 2021 after Gina Raimondo’s departure, narrowly secured his tenure in the 2022 elections. However, his latest primary challenge against Foulkes proved unsuccessful. The loss adds to the list of incumbents ousted during the 2026 primary season.
Similar historical context includes Kansas Republican Governor Jeff Colyer’s defeat in 2018, when he lost the GOP primary to Kris Kobach by a narrow margin.
Foulkes’ campaign focused on critiques of McKee’s leadership, specifically highlighting the contentious issue of the Washington Bridge’s closure due to structural problems in December 2023. In response, McKee scrutinized Foulkes’ record at CVS, particularly regarding the company’s handling of prescription opioids, painting her as a disconnected corporate figure.
Foulkes now progresses to the general election in November, positioned as a leading contender against the victor of the Republican primary. The primary competitors include Aaron Guckian, the GOP’s previous nominee for lieutenant governor, and retired executive Elaine Pelino.
Reporter Alec Schemmel, relocated from Charlotte, North Carolina, continues to cover political developments from his base in the Washington D.C.-Baltimore area.