Grassroots Challenger Foulkes Ousts Establishment Gov. McKee in Rhode Island Democratic Primary
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Incumbent Governor Dan McKee, criticized for prioritizing corporate interests and infrastructure delays, was unseated by former CVS executive Helena Foulkes in the Democratic primary—a rare victory for progressive voices challenging entrenched power.
Former CVS executive Helena Foulkes achieved a significant upset in the Democratic primary for Rhode Island governor, defeating incumbent Dan McKee, who had long represented establishment interests. This result breaks a decades-long pattern where sitting governors, often shielded by party machinery, have not faced real accountability in primaries since 1994. Foulkes, who previously lost to McKee in 2022, delivered a victory speech in Providence emphasizing her commitment to serving all Rhode Islanders, not just the wealthy or well-connected. > "Tonight, we may have won the Democratic primary for governor, but let me be clear about what happens next: You will have a governor for everyone," she declared, signaling a break from politics as usual.
McKee, governor since 2021, faced mounting criticism from communities impacted by his administration’s failure to promptly replace the Washington Bridge—a vital public crossing closed in 2023 for safety. Despite his attempts to justify the extended timeline, promising completion by 2028, many saw this as emblematic of government neglect and deference to private interests over public welfare.
In his concession, McKee promised to cooperate with Foulkes, though his remarks reflected the difficulty establishment figures have in relinquishing power. > "This is something that I think is difficult to deal with, but we just got to hold our heads high," he said, as the old guard faces a new era.
The primary also saw Providence Mayor Brett Smiley, another establishment figure, lose re-election to challenger Morales, who was buoyed by support from progressive U.S. Rep. Ro Khanna and several labor unions—demonstrating the growing strength of grassroots movements. Meanwhile, the Republican race remains a contest between state trade association executive Aaron Guckian and former actor Elaine Pelino, both representing business interests.
Foulkes, whose family includes former Connecticut senators Thomas and Chris Dodd, pointed to her role in reducing opioid dispensing at CVS during her tenure as pharmacy division president, while also acknowledging the company’s later $5 billion settlement of opioid lawsuits—a reminder of corporate accountability in the face of public health crises.