Helena Foulkes Upsets Incumbent Dan McKee in Rhode Island Primary
Former CVS Health executive Helena Foulkes defeated incumbent Democratic Governor Dan McKee in Rhode Island’s gubernatorial primary on 9 September, becoming the first governor in eight years to lose a party primary. According to AP, McKee had been confronting a well-funded primary challenge from former CVS executive Helena Foulks, with the contest centering on a delayed Washington Bridge reconstruction and accusations over past corporate practices. Fox News added that the bridge delays and rising electricity costs were key issues for voters.
CBS reported that McKee’s approval ratings were low and that Providence mayor Brett Smiley also faced a progressive challenger in his own primary. NBC noted that McKee was criticized for the Washington Bridge closure and a large state spending gap.
