AP Decision Notes: What to expect in Rhode Island’s state primary
Summary
Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee is competing in a Democratic primary to win a second full term. He faces Helena Buonanno Foulkes, who has campaigned strongly and is currently leading in some polls. A major issue in the race is McKee’s management of the Washington Bridge repair and a state investigation into his role in awarding a state contract.Key Facts
- Dan McKee is Rhode Island’s current governor, running for a second full term after first becoming governor in 2021.
- McKee won the 2022 Democratic primary with 32.8% of votes; Foulkes came in close second with 29.9%.
- Helena Buonanno Foulkes is a former CVS executive and niece of former Senator Chris Dodd.
- The Washington Bridge, a vital highway link, was closed in December 2023 due to structural flaws and won’t reopen until 2028.
- A state investigation found McKee personally intervened in awarding a multimillion-dollar state contract but did not break bribery or campaign laws.
- The state Attorney General, Peter Neronha, who led the investigation, endorsed Foulkes.
- Foulkes’ campaign fundraising and spending are about double McKee’s, and she has led in independent polls.
- McKee criticizes Foulkes for her time at CVS and its alleged role in the opioid crisis.
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