Foulkes clinches Rhode Island governorship

Democrat Helena Foulkes is projected to take over Rhode Island’s gubernatorial mansion, according to Decision Desk HQ (DDHQ).

Foulkes was leading with 56 percent of the vote to Independent candidate Ken Block’s 28 percent with 50 percent of the vote reported by DDHQ as of 8:42 p.m. EST.

Foulkes, a former CVS Pharmacy executive, fended off a challenge from Republican Aaron Guckian and Block in the solid blue state. The Democrat notably ousted Gov. Dan McKee (D) in a September primary — the only example of a gubernatorial incumbent unsuccessfully seeking their party’s nomination this cycle.

A Republican has not won the governorship in the state since 2006, and Foulkes was the favorite to win Tuesday. She notched support from former Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.).

McKee’s primary loss was not particularly surprising. He is one of the country’s most unpopular governors, according to Cook Political Report, and Foulkes first ran against the embattled Democrat in 2022, losing by single digits.

The sitting governor has been under fire for his handling of the closure and rebuilding of the Washington Bridge. The bridge, which runs from Providence to East Providence, has been closed since 2023. His administration defended its approach, saying the thruway will reopen in 2028.

McKee ascended to the governorship in 2021 after then-Gov. Gina Raimondo (D) was tapped to join the Biden administration as Commerce secretary. He served one full elected term.