Dem incumbent becomes first sitting governor to lose primary since 2018, tell me about this news in (https://www.foxnews.com/politics/dem-incumbent-becomes-first-sitting-governor-lose-primary-decade)
10-09-2026
In the September 2026 Rhode Island Democratic gubernatorial primary, Helena Buonanno Foulkesa former CVS executive and Costco board memberdefeated incumbent Democratic Governor Dan McKee. Fox NewsThis victory made McKee the first sitting governor in the United States to lose a primary election since 2018. NewstralKey highlights of the race reported by Fox News:
- High-Stakes Rematch: Foulkes avenged her narrow defeat against McKee from the 2022 Democratic primary, where McKee had previously edged her out in a crowded field before winning the general election. Fox News
- Key Campaign Issues: McKee faced significant political vulnerability over the handling and prolonged delays surrounding the Washington Bridge reconstruction, which was shut down due to critical structural issues in December 2023, causing widespread traffic gridlock and pushing completion estimates back significantly. Fox News
- Economic Pressures: Alongside the bridge controversy, voter dissatisfaction was fueled by high statewide electricity rates, affordable housing shortages, and substantial campaign spending by Foulkes, who outspent McKee roughly two-to-one. Fox News
- General Election Outlook: With McKee’s defeat, Foulkes advanced as the Democratic nominee and the frontrunner in the deep-blue state’s upcoming general election. Fox News