Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee Defeated in Democratic Primary by Helena Foulkes

Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee is projected to lose his bid for reelection in the state’s Democratic primary, according to a poll conducted by Decision Desk HQ (DDHQ). The survey shows former CVS executive Helena Foulkes leading with 62 percent of the vote to McKee’s 38 percent, a margin of nearly 25 percentage points.

This marks the second time the two candidates have faced off for the Democratic nomination. McKee, who has served as governor since 2023, had previously won the party’s endorsement, while Foulkes, a former senior executive at the pharmacy chain, has positioned herself as a reform‑oriented challenger. The DDHQ poll reflects a growing shift within the party, with voters expressing concerns over McKee’s handling of state issues such as public health and economic recovery.

If the primary results hold, Foulkes would become the Democratic nominee for the upcoming gubernatorial election, potentially ending McKee’s tenure. The outcome will shape Rhode Island’s political trajectory and set the stage for the general election, where the Democratic nominee will face the Republican challenger.